Family’s Coast to Coast challenge in Rueben’s memory
THE family Huddersfield boy who died after his devastating brain tumour diagnosis will be taking on a 196-mile walking challenge in his memory.
Rueben Walder passed away on May 30 this year, exactly a year after his family were told of his cancer diagnosis and in the bed in which he was born.
The Holmfirth boy bravely fought his illness, undergoing brain surgery twice and dealing with the effects of chemotherapy.
His father Steve, partner Liz and two of their sons, Otis, nine, and Sidney, eight, are now planing to take on the Coast to Coast Walk, starting from St Bee’s in Cumbria on August 4, and aiming to arrive at Robin Hood’s Bay, Rueben’s favourite place, on Friday, August 21.
The challenge is in memory of Rueben but the family are also trying to raise £3,000 for The Candlelight Trust. Last year, they raised £10,693 for the charity.
Their GoFundMe page reads: “It was just over a year ago when our journey began.
“On the 30.05.19 our beautiful 10-year-old son Rueben Walder was diagnosed with a very high graded rare brain tumour. He endured 2 brain surgeries, 30 sessions of radiotherapy and 3 rounds of the most aggressive chemotherapy.
He faced every challenge with such strength, determination and true willpower.
“He was a warrior, a true soldier and over time he built his own inspiration - the best army anyone could ask for who have supported us and still are to this day.
“Steve and Liz both want to carry on Rueben’s inspiration in helping others. They want to show and help others by taking on such a challenge so soon after their son passed away.
“Now it’s Otis and Sidney’s turn to show you all how strong they both are and they both would love everyone’s support.
“No matter how big or small, every donation will help them to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”