A Barrowford man has taken on the monumental challenge of trekking across the Lake District in aid of a hospice.
Joe Maden, 42, has named his challenge the 'One Legged Wainwright's for Pendleside Hospice'.
The challenge involves walking all 214 of the renowned Wainwright's, located in The Lake District, with the goal of visiting every trig point by the start of January next year.
Joe's journey took an unforeseen turn at the age of 16 when a serious accident led to the amputation of his right leg below the knee.
Undeterred Joe, with the support of friends, family, specialist medics and physiotherapy, successfully regained mobility and resumed his Electrical Engineering Apprenticeship, at Nelson-based firm, Robinson and Lawlor, where he still works today.
Joe said: "I don't consider myself to be an amputee; I'm just as fit and capable to take on this challenge as anyone else - I just put my leg on and crack on.
“Since I was young, I have always got on with life. Now that I'm getting older, I think it's important to raise awareness that no matter your disability - if you put your mind to something - you can do it."
Joe's connection with the outdoors and his passion for walking converged when he received a gift about the Wainwright Routes. The idea also comes after he conquered the Yorkshire Three Peaks.
Joe said, “I have reached 30 of the peaks already, including High Street, High Raise and Sheffield Pike, with future challenges on the horizon, such as Scafell Pike. What I’m really looking forward to though is pitting my wits against the Striding Edge on Helvellyn!”
The decision came from Joe's wife, Karel, who suggested supporting Pendleside Hospice.
Joe said, "I chose Pendleside Hospice as they’re a charity close to everyone's hearts around here.
“They do an amazing job, and I would love nothing more than to raise money for such a good cause. The £5,000 target I have set myself is what keeps me motivated!"
Joe has exceeded the £1,000 mark in his fundraising efforts and aims to reach his goal within the next 12 months.
As a season ticket holder for Burnley Football Club, Joe said he draws inspiration from local figure Jay Rodriguez, an Ambassador for Pendleside Hospice.
Joe also shares his walking experiences with his brother-in-law, Wayne, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout various challenges.
Joe said, "Wayne has been there a lot for me and has been a massive supporter in every challenge I’ve set myself.
"The biggest setback with this challenge is the great British weather. You can head out one week and take in spectacular views, then go for a walk the following week in a torrential downpour.
“I’ve set off on walks before and had to turn back around due to poor weather conditions, but it doesn’t put me off - I just keep going! I’d planned to conquer four of the routes over the Christmas period, but the weather simply got the better of me.”
Joe said he wanted to make his wife and two children, Ava and Blake, proud.
“I can’t thank them enough for continually cheering me on! They also think I’m a little bit mad, but it’s all for a good cause. Quite often, I’m heading into work, sore, and I’m regularly having to visit the chiropractor to get myself ready for the next walk - but it’s all for the greater good!”
He added: "If I had to give advice to anyone wanting to take on a challenge, it would be to get out of your comfort zone and push yourself into doing something great. My go-to phrase is ‘It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog,'"
To support Joe and contribute to his cause you can visit his JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/page/joe-maden-1695194338924
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