A HEART-BROKEN Cockfield family are staging a second charity fun-run in memory of a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Valerie Stainthorpe died in 2020 from a rare condition, multiple system atrophy (MSA), which affects balance, movement and the nervous system.
Last year her husband Andrew, along with daughters Carrie Wheeler and Rebecca Harrison, raised about £1,400 for the MSA Trust after organising a fun run in the village in her memory.
The family took up couch-to-2k running as a way of coping with their loss, and have since signed up with Teesdale Athletic Club.
At the time Carrie said: “We honestly feel this dragged us through a very difficult stage in our grief. Club members have been fantastic – what a lovely group of supportive people. We feel very lucky to now be club members.”
Her mum was initially diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease about eight years ago because the symptoms are very similar to MSA.
Carrie said: “It would be around two years later that the final diagnosis of MSA was made. MSA quickly progresses and does not slow down with medication.
“Mam was 68 when she passed away – she was a very strong lady right to the end. She loved walking and gardening, and most of all spending time with her three grandchildren Kaci, Roxy and Jack.
“She tried hard to live her life, but her illness was cruel and debilitating.”
The family’s latest fun run will again raise cash for the MSA Trust as well as Brain Research UK.
The 6k event starts and finishes at Cockfield Working Men’s Club on Saturday, July 13, at 11am.
There is no entrance fee but donations will be gladly received. A post run raffle and cake is on offer.
