FROME father, Adrian ‘Paddy’ Mead, will attempt to conquer the London Marathon next month in memory of his daughter Lauren, who died suddenly in her sleep last year at the age of 19.
Adrian, who prefers to be known as Paddy, will be raising money for SADS UK, a charity that aims to prevent loss of life from sudden arrhythmia death syndrome (SADS), by highlighting cardiac risk in the young through to middle aged; and also funding life saving equipment and research into SADS. Paddy has already raised over £3,200 for the charity.
The London Marathon, which takes place in April, will be the first of many challenges that Paddy will attempt in memory of his daughter – other challenges being considered include swimming the English Channel, an ironman race, and the National Three Peaks Challenge.
Paddy said, “Our beautiful Lauren died in her sleep on October 13th 2019, she was just 19 years old. Her heart stopped. Lauren was studying for her A-levels and had a very bright future ahead of her.
“Lauren was kind and caring and her infectious personality had a massive impact on everyone that knew her, her passing has left a gaping hole in the hearts of her family and friends.
“As her father I feel I need to keep Lauren’s memory alive, and will take on and achieve challenges in her memory, the first of these will be the Virgin Money London Marathon 2020.
“I have done three or four marathons before, and a double marathon – but I’ve been seriously injured with my hip, so this will be my first marathon in about three years. I didn’t think I’d be able to run one again to be honest! Hopefully I’ve recovered enough to do a slow marathon – training seems to be going well.”
Lauren’s family and friends have also been organising many fundraising events in her memory. A total of over £9,000 has so far been raised for SADS, which includes around £1,500 that was recently raised by Lauren’s brother, Patrick, who is in year 13 at Frome College, by shaving his head.
To donate and support Paddy, visit the website: https://uk.virginmoneygiving .com/SomeoneSpecial/ LaurenRoseMead
Right: Adrian ‘Paddy’ Mead running with his daughter Lauren, who died last year.
