Teenager runs London Marathon to thank firefighters charity for Dad’s recovery

A teenager from South Wales is taking on this year’s London Marathon in aid of Fire Fighters Charity, to show his thanks for the support his firefighter dad received following a major accident.

Ben Vaughan, 18, from Newport, South Wales, hopes to raise as much as possible for the charity, after his dad Dave Vaughan, a Watch Manager with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, fell 33-foot from his roof at home in 2016, sustaining multiple injuries.

Dave explained:

“It was horrendous, I had the air ambulance out and it was touch and go for a while to be honest. All of a sudden I was the patient, not the firefighter there to help, and I was diagnosed with PTSD sometime after that, as I struggled to deal with what I’d been through.

“The charity was amazing – I was invited to Harcombe House and Marine Court, two of the charity’s residential centres, and received both rehabilitation and psychological support. Hand on heart, it really helped me and also my family.

“Seeing Ben take on this marathon for me is a massive honour, I feel so proud.”

Ben added:

“Thanks to the charity, my dad was given the care, support, and rehabilitation he needed to not only recover but get back on his feet and continue his career in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

“The charity didn’t just help my dad; they also supported my two younger brothers, helping them through the challenges that came with seeing their father go through such an ordeal.

“My family also has a history of raising money for the charity, as my dad ran the 2009 New York Marathon to raise funds. Now, I want to give back and help, ensuring they can continue to support the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect others.”

Claire McMinn, Regional Fundraiser at Fire Fighters Charity, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful to Ben for choosing to support us through his London Marathon fundraising. Every pound raised will go directly towards helping more members of our fire services community, just like Dave, with their mental and physical health and well-being.

To donate to Ben’s fundraiser, click here, and to find out more about Fire Fighters Charity, please visit: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk.