A couple from Newcastle are taking on a 100km Ultra Challenge after their young daughter was diagnosed with a painful lifelong condition shortly after her third birthday. Charlotte and Paddy Cumiskey, aged 33 and 34, will tackle the Lake District Ultra Challenge this June to raise funds for Juvenile Arthritis Research (JAR), following their daughter Clara's diagnosis with juvenile arthritis.
Now aged four, Clara has already undergone two surgeries to treat inflammation in her joints and relies on immune-suppressing medication to manage her condition. Thankfully, she is currently in medicated remission. Juvenile arthritis is a painful autoimmune disease that affects children, and there is currently no cure.
Determined to make a difference, Charlotte and Paddy are taking on the 100km Lake District Ultra Challenge to raise awareness and support vital research into the condition. Paddy Cumiskey said: "We're really excited, and a bit nervous, to be taking on the Ultra Challenge. Clara was diagnosed just after her third birthday, and it's completely changed our lives. She's already been through so much, including two surgeries, and now depends on medication to keep her condition under control. We're so grateful she's in medicated remission, but we know there's still a long way to go, not just for Clara, but for so many other children."
The Challenge Ahead
The Lake District Ultra Challenge, taking place on June 6-7, will see thousands of participants walk, jog or run distances of up to 100km through some of the UK's most demanding and scenic terrain. For the Cumiskeys, the challenge represents both a personal test and a way to support a cause that has become central to their lives.
Supporting Juvenile Arthritis Research
Juvenile Arthritis Research funds vital scientific work and collaborates with experts around the world to better understand the disease, improve treatments, and work towards finding a cure. The couple have already raised over £2,000, with donations continuing to grow as they prepare for the event. To support Charlotte and Paddy's fundraising for Juvenile Arthritis Research, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/cumiskeysforjar
Taking on 100km in the Lake District will be a huge physical and mental test, but one they say is driven by something far greater. Charlotte added: "It's going to be tough, but it's nothing compared to what children like Clara face every day. If we can raise awareness and help fund research that makes a difference, it will all be worth it."
Limited places remain for 2026's Lake District Ultra Challenge. Find out more at www.ultrachallenge.com/lake-district-challenge/
