Two scaffolders from Northamptonshire are preparing to run an ultra-marathon to raise money for a disabled children’s charity in support of their colleague’s daughter.

Contracts Director Ben Ekins and Estimator Jordan Harrison from Midland Scaffolding Services (MSS) will run 50 miles from Birmingham to Northampton on 19 September.

The pair are raising funds for Caudwell Children after their colleague, Gary Rouse, revealed his baby daughter Poppy was born with Down’s syndrome and a serious heart condition.

‘Toughest time of our lives’

Mr Rouse, a father of 15 who has worked at MSS for 26 years, said it had been a difficult few months since Poppy’s birth in December.

“She’s needed tube feeding and has had regular hospital stays and appointments with heart specialists,” he said.

“Obviously our time with Poppy has been enjoyable, but it’s been hard work – the hardest time of our lives probably. We’ve known since day one she’d need her operation. It’s really tough but we are battling on through.”

Poppy is due to undergo urgent heart surgery in September.

£20,000 fundraising target

Ben and Jordan have been training for months in the hope of raising at least £20,000 for the charity.

Mr Ekins said: “We chose Caudwell Children because it helps so many families, and as Poppy progresses through her life the charity will be there to support her with whatever she needs.”

Mr Harrison, who recently became a father himself, added: “This cause is so close to our hearts because Gary has served with us for so long. We’ve got to finish this for Poppy.”

Community support

Industry businesses have donated prizes for a raffle, and MSS will stage a family fun day at the finish line to welcome the runners back.

Claire Marshall, chief executive of Caudwell Children, said the pair’s efforts would make a direct difference.

“We are deeply inspired by Ben and Jordan’s incredible 50-mile challenge, and so grateful they chose to support Caudwell Children,” she said.

“Their generosity directly helps children like Poppy, giving them access to the support, tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”

Mr Rouse said he was overwhelmed by the support shown.
“It’s amazing what they are doing. I’d say to them both: good luck, believe in yourself. If you believe, you will conquer it,” he said.

Donations can be made via the “50 Miles for Poppy” fundraising page.