Jeff blazes the trail in memory of his mother
EX-FIREMAN IS UP AND RUNNING IN BID TO AID CHARITIES
A FORMER firefighter spent last weekend running four miles every four hours in memory of his mum who lost her life to Covid-19.
Jeff Stephenson took on the fundraising challenge to raise money for two charities close to his heart.
The 57-year-old, from North Shields, spent 48 hours running four miles every four hours at the Royal Quays Marina.
The idea came from American exmarine David Goggins, who created the ‘Goggins Challenge.’
Jeff decided to take it on after his mum Harriet died two weeks ago. The 83-year-old had contracted Covid.
Jeff began running at 4am on Saturday, the day after his mum’s funeral, and finished at midnight on Sunday.
So far more than £2,700 has been donated to his online fundraising page.
The money will be split between charities supporting arthritis and multiple sclerosis sufferers.
Jeff said it had given the family something positive to focus on.
He said: “It has been an awful time for the family, my mum was a amazing woman.
“I had been thinking about doing the challenge anyway, then when my mam passed away I thought it was a great idea to do it in her memory.
“We had to set off at 4am and we had just cremated my mam the day before. I just wanted to do something positive and raise a bit of money.”
Jeff chose the charities because his mum battled arthritis for a number of years and his daughter Chloe, 27, was recently diagnosed with MS.
He added: “My mam had suffered a lot from arthritis and she was so brave.
“She never complained and she always had a smile on her face and a good sense of humour.
“My daughter was diagnosed with MS a few years ago and she has been an inspiration as well. She has never let it stop her doing anything.”
Jeff, who retired from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service five years ago, was joined on some of his runs by friends and family members - including his 24-year-old son Jake, who is also a firefighter.
He also pounded the pavements alone overnight but with support from neighbours cheering, clapping and playing music to spur him on.
Jeff’s partner Gill Adam, 49, said: ”Jeff is well known in the area and much loved for his commitment to fitness and always seen out running the streets.
“He has a heart of gold and the strength of an ox and the most positive attitude ever that you can succeed in life despite tough times.
“The support for him around the Marina has been outstanding.
“He was aiming to raise £100 but has now surpassed £1,000, which is brilliant.”