Our Elodie struggles to walk more than a few steps due to her lung and heart conditions, but has decided to take on a remarkable 10-mile sponsored hike to thank us for the support she and her family receives.

Elodie, 14, has signed up for our virtual Take A Hike event which encourages people to go out and do a 10-mile walk in their local area on March 28.

The Wrexham teenager has had heart defects since birth which have led to a cardiac arrest, clots in her lungs and mini strokes. She has been through 10 open heart surgeries, and has a pacemaker fitted.

The doctors recently discovered she has pulmonary vein stenosis, and as a result Elodie has lost her left lung and only has 83 per cent functionality of her right one.

This means she requires oxygen 24-hours-a-day to allow her to breath, making walking a tough task.

A huge challenge

“Most of the time Elodie is actually in a wheelchair, as taking just a few steps is quite a big ask as she gets out of breath and quite tired,” says mum Jenna.

“But Elodie loves going to Hope House, as a 14-year-old it really gives her that independence away from home that teenagers need. She just wants to do something to give back, so she’s challenged herself to get those steps in every day while giving her dog Teddy a walk.”

As well as Elodie visiting the hospice, her siblings Cade, 11, and Ellie, 15, also benefit from the sibling support which the charity offers.

“Since we started using Hope House’s services 18 months ago it has become a huge part of our lives,” said Jenna.

“Everyone is so incredibly helpful and friendly there, and they have offered us support we didn’t know we could get. Elodie has already raised more than £1,400 which is really pushing her on to make sure she finishes the 10 miles.

“Myself and Elodie’s dad Chris are so proud of her and will be supporting her all the way.”

The big finish

Elodie intends to finish her tenth mile on the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, the original finishing line for the Llangollen Canal Walk due to be held on March 28.

However, due to the continuation of the lockdowns in England and Wales it has been decided to turn the canal walk into the Take A Hike virtual event instead.

If like Elodie you would like to support us in this event then sign up today while places are still available and get your special medal - sponsored by Net World Sports - and a goodie bag.

If you would like to donate to Elodie’s fund then click here.