I rode 20 miles in memory of Rohan
ASOUTHPORT schoolboy who died from a rare chromosome condition has been remembered through fundraising efforts by family friends.
Rohan Alipour-Faridani, from Southport, lost his battle with MELAS (which stands for myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes) in October 2014, at the age of 10.
Disabled Pippa Bellis, a friend of Rohan’s mother Vicky McConnachie, decided to swap four wheels for two to raise money and cycle 20 miles in memory of the Churchtown Primary School pupil.
“I had the privilege of knowing Rohan personally,” said Pippa.
“I first met him when he was three years old and, while most children would shy away from someone in a wheelchair, all Rohan wanted to do was to hold my hand, and this theme continued every time I went to see Vicky.
“Rohan would not let Vicky and I go out on our own as he would always want to come with us – not that I minded at all, because I adored Rohan.
“Because he was such a special little boy and because Vicky was a mum in a million and a truly inspirational friend, I wanted to give something back.
“I feel that it is so important that exploratory studies goes on to stop children like Rohan, their families and their loved ones going through the same thing.”
Pippa, who has athetoid cerebral palsy, meaning all four of her limbs have involuntary movements, said it was “a really amazing day” which has raised £1,255.
Pippa was inspired by Rohan to support Action Medical Research’s work to save and change the lives of sick and disabled babies and children.
To support Pippa’s fundraising campaign, please visit action.org. uk/ sponsor/ pippabellis or to contribute to the tribute fund for Rohan, head to action. org.uk/tribute/ rohanalipourfaridani