Kind-hearted Janet isgoing the distance for Joe

Janet Dickson needed a purpose to start running against after taking some time out following an injury.

A friend of hers introduced her to Joe Rush, 14, who has Duchenne muscular dystrophy and uses a wheelchair.

The youngster, from Petersfield, said to Janet, 38, that he would give anything to be able to run again.

It was there and then that Janet, from Port Solent, vowed to do him proud.

In the past year she has run countless half-marathons, her first full marathon, and even an ultra marathon – 38 gruelling miles.

She has four more half-marathons to go and will finish the year off with a further full marathon in a bid to raise £10,000 for vital equipment to help Joe, whose muscles are weakening rapidly.

Janet said: ‘I needed a reason to start running again, to pay it forward.

‘I met Joe and that was that. He is the reason I’m doing this.

‘The cost of equipment for Joe is crazy. He needs help coughing, because his muscles are so weak. The machine costs £4,500. He also needs a hoist so I’m doing everything I can to help.

Joe was diagnosed with the muscle-wasting condition when he was five. Up until then he had been able to stand, walk, run and jump, play football and swim, just like any other child of his age.

But the illness makes him weaker year-on-year.

Joe’s mum Annette said: ‘We cannot thank Janet enough for all she has done for Joe and our family.

‘She is an amazing lady with a real passion and drive. There are no limits to achieve the goal of reaching the £10,000 target she set for herself.’

Janet is holding a black tie ball at the Langstone Hotel, Hayling Island, on November 4. Tickets are £45 and include food, live music and other entertainment.

To book tickets e-mail janet@yescando or call 07595 325717.

To sponsor Janet go to bit.ly/2eJ2xew.