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In memory of baby Lachie: Grandmother Diane Le Count's Thames Path trek for stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands




A Sawbridgeworth grandmother said that she was proud of her son-in-law Dan and his friend James who completed the Thames Path 100km challenge in 22 hours and 30 minutes to raise money for stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands.

Diane Le Count's own attempt to finish the trek in under 24 hours was thwarted at the 50km mark, which the trio reached in 9hr 45min.

"My head, muscles and joints were OK to complete the course, but sadly my feet let me down," said the 64-year old from Lawrence Moorings.

Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360902)
Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360902)

"At the 50km stop I went to the medical tent for my blisters to be dressed and taped, which was all going well until my blood pressure dropped. Next thing I knew, I was on the floor unconscious with a doctor at my side. The decision to continue was taken away from me."

Diane had thought her fundraising days were over. This all changed when her daughter Emma was six months' pregnant and her grandson Lachie's heart stopped beating.

"He was a perfectly formed little baby – he had the Le Count legs," she said.

Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360857)
Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360857)

"I had to do something. In brief, I put my boots back on in training so I can raise money for this amazing charity.

"It was a devastating time, particularly for Emma and her husband James, but Sands were absolutely fantastic. I can't thank them enough."

As well as the walk – which was "by far the hardest challenge I have attempted... my feet are wrecked" – Diane organised two fundraisers in Sawbridgeworth.

A coffee morning and raffle at Church House on August 31 racked up £590, and she held a pub quiz at the George the Fourth on September 19.

Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360872)
Diane Le Count, my son-in-law Dan and friend James attempt to walk the Thames Path 100km in 24 hours in September 7th to raise money for Sands (16360872)

Her fundraising total stands at £1,370. To support it further, you can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Diane-Le-Count2.



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