A resilient young man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) has proven his determination to succeed beyond the confines of his condition by completing yet another ‘crazy’ fundraising challenge with the help of his trusty companion, pet dog Gizmo.
Newry’s Alfie Pentony was diagnosed with the inherited condition which causes progressive muscle weakness in November 2016 and since then has – with the help of his parents -–conjured up various exciting ways of raising funds to help those affected by DMD.
This year, due to health issues, the team have been unable to hold their usual events but that didn’t stop them from brainstorming ‘Alfie’s Dog Jog’.
Throughout Lent dog-lover Alfie and four-legged friend Gizmo have religiously completed one mile a day – no matter the weather.
Alfie’s dad, Jamie set up a JustGiving page to gather donations.
Jamie said: “Alfie is such an incredible boy who has shown so much resilience his whole life with everything he has already done along with what his wee body goes through, and now he’s going to do this, which will be totalling in 40 miles absolutely amazing for any kid with Duchenne to even try this.”
The challenge has been well documented, start to finish, with regular photo and video content uploaded to the Fight for Alfie Facebook page detailing the highs and lows of their daily jogs.
Alfie and Gizmo on one of their rainy walks
It’s fair to say that Alfie has attacked the challenge with sheer fight and determination. Not all days have been easy but he persisted nonetheless.
The good days, thankfully, were more often than not. Savvy Alfie even doubled up his walks on occasion to ensure he could take time off if he needed – or wanted – and what better way to take a break than at the local funfair with friends of an evening!
With the companionship and support of his closest friends and family, the boy and dog duo went beyond what they set out to achieve.
On day 39 of 40 Jamie commented: “Well we are proud as punch as our fantastic son has completed 79km.
“This is a very significant number in the Duchenne community as it represents the 79 exons which makes up the dystrophin gene. The largest gene in our body with the responsibility of repairing our damaged muscle cells.
“Alfie’s body does not produce this protein and this is the cause of his DMD.”
His challenge met its end on Easter Saturday, when Newcastle-supporter Alfie returned home to the bonus of his favourite team securing a win against West Ham.
Alfie was met at the USPCA site in Newry by a crowd of applauding supporters where dad Jamie expressed his pride in his son’s ‘amazing’ achievement, promising to deliver on those Hasbro toys he’s been wanting!
At the time of writing Alfie and Gizmo have raised £3,441 of their £3,500 target.
The funds raised will help ensure Alfie continues with his treatments in America as well as supporting other families who are similarly affected through the provision of aids and support to help them access trials and improve their lives.
