Isle Of Wight PT To Take On 13 Challenges In 13 Months In Memory Of Mum

An Isle of Wight man is preparing to take on 13 fundraising challenges over 13 months in support of Mountbatten Isle of Wight and in memory of his mum.

Former young carer turned personal trainer Josh Langan is marking his 21st birthday with a series of endurance events designed to push him to his physical limits — with a target of raising £10,000 for the Island hospice.

His first challenge takes place on Sunday 26th April, when he will walk 21km from Shanklin beach — his mum’s favourite place — to Mountbatten in Newport.

Josh’s mum, Sam, died in Mountbatten’s care when he was just 14.

He says the hospice supported both her and the family with compassion and dignity during a difficult time.

He has since made it a personal mission to raise money and awareness in her memory, previously taking on events including Walk the Wight.

This year, he says turning 21 feels like the right moment to “go bigger than ever”.

Among his planned challenges are public charity bootcamps, a 50km coastal walk from Cowes to Ventnor, and a 21-hour continuous fitness challenge.

Josh says his mum remains his inspiration, helping drive him through running, walking, climbing and swimming challenges.

Community fundraiser at Mountbatten, Harri McNeil, said the hospice is “looking forward to supporting him” and praised the effort as vital in helping fund its care services, most of which are delivered in people’s homes across the Island.

She added that the majority of Mountbatten’s funding comes from community support and donations.

Donations can be made via Josh’s JustGiving page.