Burnley teacher runs marathon with 170 pairs of pyjamas after nephew diagnosed with cancer

A teacher from Burnley has completed a marathon towing 170 pairs of pyjamas to raise money for the children's cancer charity 'Milly's Smiles'.

Adam Todd ran 26.2 miles from Burnley to Manchester Children's Hospital, running with the pairs of pyjamas in a buggy.

He chose to take on the challenge, after his five-year-old nephew was diagnosed with cancer.

Salahman Khan was diagnosed with Leukaemia in November, and his illness became progressively worse.

His mum Charlotte then took him to Royal Blackburn Hospital, where cancer cells were identified in his blood.

Salahman was then taken urgently to Manchester Children's Hospital, where he started to receive chemotherapy treatment the following day.

After being admitted to hospital, his mum received a gifted bag from the charity 'Milly's Smiles', filled with essentials.

The family therefore chose to support the charity with a fundraising challenge that has so far raised £4,500.

Adam said: "While someone is undergoing treatment, the people who love them can feel entirely helpless.

"The fundraiser was my small way of giving back to two groups of people, who have been such a support and comfort to Salahman and the family.

Adam chose to run with pyjamas after noticing how many pairs Salahman used due to the side effects of his treatment.

Adam said: "In a way, carrying the pyjamas was almost like carrying some of the weight that has been out on the family. Running a marathon is hard, running a marathon while pushing 175 pairs of pyjamas is harder."

Salahman remains in Manchester Children's Hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

Adam concluded: "We would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported this challenge, Salahman and the family.

"Salahman has a long hard road ahead of him but he is surrounded by family and friends, who love him so much and will be right by his side."

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