A unique challenge for a unique boy

Richard Buchan completed a gruelling 130-mile run in an extraordinary 34 hours in memory of his nephew, Dylan Cooke, and to raise funds for Haven House, the children’s hospice that cared for his family.

The remarkable journey began on Saturday 21 September in Coventry and concluded in Dylan’s hometown of Walthamstow. Despite severe stormy weather and running continuously throughout the night, Richard pushed through the adversity and sheer exhaustion, determined to shine a light on hospice care.

Dylan was born with Sandhoff disease, a very rare condition, with currently no cure. Dylan passed away in 2023 and Haven House were able to support the family with music, yoga therapy, and hydrotherapy, as well as care at home during Dylan’s final days.

“Having seen firsthand the impact of a life-limiting diagnosis on a family, I wanted to do what I could to help others in the same situation. As Dylan was a unique boy, I wanted to take on a unique challenge to celebrate his life,” said Richard. “Coventry and Walthamstow were two places that meant a lot to Dylan and his family so running between them seemed an appropriate, if daunting, challenge.”

Richard Buchan

The challenge was tough throughout. The distance meant that during the first day the finish line always seemed out of reach. which Richard says was tough mentally. Friends joined along the route, offering encouragement and celebrating each milestone, while family were waiting for him at the finish line.

Richard, 45, from Kent, continued: “Haven House played an important role in caring for my nephew. During this time, I gained a greater understanding of the role hospices play in providing care and support for families in the most difficult of circumstances. Haven House not only provided expert care for Dylan, but also made his last years more fulfilling, providing a loving community of support. They are a vital resource for families and deserve as much support as possible.”

Rebecca Hancock, Haven House’s Community and Events Officer, said: “Hospice care is a vital resource for families in our community. Richard raised an incredible £2,555 for Haven House. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication and the support he is providing to help ensure that we can continue offering compassionate care to those in need.”

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