PFT patron Nick Ashill has run more than 950 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise awareness of pulmonary fibrosis. Now, the work continues.
At John O’Groats, Nick Ashill set off into driving rain and howling wind. By the time he reached Land’s End, the skies had cleared.
Between those two moments lay more than 950 miles: long days on the road, tough weather, welcomes from people along the way and conversations about a disease many people have never heard of.
Nick completed the run in memory of his mum, who died from pulmonary fibrosis. But the challenge was never only about reaching the finish. It was about bringing the experiences of people affected by PF into view — and helping more people understand what it means when breathing becomes difficult.
“I can stop running now. People living with pulmonary fibrosis can’t simply stop living with the disease.”
Those words capture why the finish line was a beginning as well as an ending.
More than 950 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End.
A journey shared
Nick wasn’t alone on the road. His support crew travelled with him, and people living with pulmonary fibrosis, their families, carers and local support groups met him along the route. At Land’s End, he was welcomed by PFT Chair Peter Bryce, members of the Cornwall Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group, his daughter Leanne and the team who had supported the challenge.
The journey also reached people who couldn’t be there in person. Nick’s progress was followed in the Inverness Courier, and Greatest Hits Radio reported on his finish. ITV News was also at Land’s End to capture the moment.
Nick with Peter Bryce and Leanne.
What comes next
The run may be over, but Every Breath is Precious is still going. At the time of writing, the campaign has raised £70,300 towards its £100,000 target. That leaves £29,700 to raise before the end of the year.
The funds will help the Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust grow its support for people living with PF and their families including practical help and support, equipment and adaptations. PFT receives no grant funding; its work depends on donations, fundraising and the generosity of its supporters and partners.
Nick’s book, The Longest Run: A Story of Endurance, Trauma and Forgiveness, is also due to be released, with all proceeds going to the Trust.
The finish at Land’s End and the next chapter for Every Breath is Precious.
You don’t have to run 950 miles to be part of what happens next. You can help by sharing Nick’s story, telling someone about pulmonary fibrosis, organising a fundraiser or supporting the campaign.
The finish line has been crossed but the journey still continues.