Family and friends of a 21-year-old who tragically lost his life in a road traffic collision earlier this year are preparing to run 22 miles in his memory – while raising funds for us and another charity.
Harrison Bretherton died on 15 September, a day after the tragic crash. He, his girlfriend and his twin brother, James, were all passengers in the car at the time.
Now, Harrison’s older brother, Trafford, 25, is taking part in a fundraiser as a way of paying tribute to his sibling and will be joined on 25 May for the run by his brother James, Harrison’s best friend Harry – who’s organised the event – and other family and friends from around their hometown of Lytham St Annes.
“Harrison was a much loved and adored son, brother and friend to many. He had a heart of gold and lit up every room he entered with his larger than life, happy aura and a beautiful smile to go with it,” says Trafford.
He adds of the day Harrison passed away: “Harrison was surrounded by all his family and friends, all the people who adored him were by his side until the very end. Now he is by all of our sides, every minute of every day.
“In Harrison’s memory, there will be a 22-mile run on the 25/05/2024 named ‘Harrison’s 22nd Mile’. James, Harry (Harrison’s best friend) and Trafford (Harrison’s older brother), and more friends and family along the way will be taking on this challenge to raise money for the nominated charities. Harrison never made it to 22, so we will be running his 22nd mile.”
The event, which has already raised almost £10,000, is in aid of us and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
Trafford adds of their reason for choosing us: “When the accident happened on the 14/09/2023 the fire service were one of the first emergency service teams on scene. Due to their expertise skill and quick work, they were able to free Harrison from the wreckage which then allowed the paramedics to treat Harrison and get him on a ventilator.
“This allowed our family and Harrison’s friends to say a real goodbye to him, given the circumstances this is the absolute least we could’ve asked for. For that reason, we will all be forever thankful to the fire service.”
He adds: “I sometimes think the fire service is the emergency service that often gets forgotten about. Seeing them that night brought it home. They’re often the first there to help people.”
To support the family’s fundraiser, click here.
