Omagh dad’s tough running challenge to help his ‘hero’ son

TO mark his 40th birthday, Omagh man Darren Pritchard is pushing his limits with an extraordinary endurance challenge – running five miles every four hours for 48 hours straight – all in aid of his young son, Caiden.

The local youngster lives with MecP2 Duplication Syndrome, an extremely rare genetic condition that affects fewer than 1,000 children worldwide. He is one of just two known cases in Ireland.

“The condition is incredibly rare, and it affects all aspects of Caiden’s life,” Darren said. “Despite the constant hospital visits and daily struggles, he always pushes through with real courage. That’s what inspires me.”

MecP2 Duplication Syndrome primarily affects boys and is characterised by moderate to severe learning difficulties, low muscle tone from infancy, feeding issues, limited or absent speech, and muscle stiffness.

Daily life for Caiden involves constant care – but also immense resilience.

Darren’s challenge begins on Friday, June 13 and will continue through day and night until Sunday, June 15, with a run starting every four hours – including through the early hours of the morning.

He is inviting the public to cheer him on as he completes the grueling task around the streets of Omagh. Supporters are also welcome to join him for a leg of the journey.

“The training has been tough – I’m learning to run on tired legs,” Darren admitted. “But when I think about everything Caiden goes through every single day, I know I can keep going. He’s my hero.”

Funds raised through Darren’s challenge will go toward life-enhancing therapies, specialist equipment – including a custom running buggy so Darren can take Caiden along on future runs – and support promising international research that could benefit Caiden and others living with the condition.

“There’s a clinical trial happening in America that could help slow down the progression of the syndrome,” Darren explained. “We’d love for Caiden to be part of that. It could make a huge difference – not just for us, but for families around the world.”

Darren said that he would like to thank his partner Melanie Bell, who is Caiden’s mum and main carer.

“The work Melanie does with him is tremendous. His sisters Rebecca and Megan are also brilliant and the whole family unit have enabled me to keep training due to their immense support,” Darren added.

To follow Darren’s journey or donate to the cause, supporters can connect with him via social media, where he will be posting updates and sharing his running route.

If you would like to donate to his GoFundMe, the link is www.gofundme.com/f/40th-birthday-fundraiser-5-miles-every-4-hours-for-48.