Doncaster teen told he could spend rest of life in wheelchair completes 26 mile walk

Ben Warnes, 14, only learned to walk again six weeks ago after falling seriously ill in January and requiring two major brain surgery operations.

But the Thorne teenager is made of tough stuff and announced a fundraising ‘marathon’ in aid of Sheffield Children's Hospital, wanting to walking 26 miles in seven days – the equivalent of a marathon.

But he completed the trek in just six days – and has collected more than £1,600 for the hospital for his efforts.

Proud mum Lucy said: “The most courageous, determined and strongest person I know and that I have the privilege of calling my son walked a marathon in six days!

“Ben and our family have faced very dark and difficult times over the last few months, however, Ben has jumped every hurdle that has stood in his way. He is my true inspiration and has proved to us all that anything is possible.”

Prior to falling ill, Ben was an active child, attending the gym five times a week and playing sports.

Added Lucy: “Back in January his world as he knew it changed drastically.

“Ben become seriously ill which required two major brain surgeries.

“Following his surgery Ben faced the possibility of spending the rest of his life in a wheelchair and had a long and very difficult battle to regain his movement and strength.

“He has achieved so much since his illness.”