The parents of Banbridge boy Adam Watson – who passed away in 2022 – have committed to yet another mammoth challenge, walking from Newry to Manchester in his memory.
Adam’s brave and humbling journey began with his diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia in 2019. For three years he battled courageously, with his constant positivity and hope capturing the hearts of thousands across his local community and beyond.
Prior to his tragic passing in 2022, aged nine, Adam – with the help of his parents, Sara and David – set up a cancer charity aptly named ‘B Positive’ which amassed a colossal following known as ‘Adam’s Army’ during his fight against cancer… and continues to grow to this day.
David and Sara have furthered their son’s legacy year-on-year, holding annual epic fundraising events that previously took the form of 24-hour walking challenges.
Their third and final 24-hour challenge took place in August 2024 at Craigavon Lakes raising over £30,000, bringing the total amount raised in aid of the Cancer Fund for Children and B Positive across the three walks to over £200,000.
Now for their 2025 undertaking, the pair are beginning ‘Adam’s Miles for Leukaemia‘ with a 70 miles from Newry to Manchester in aid of Cure Leukaemia.
They commenced their journey this morning (May 2) at 8am with a team of people who were all individually instrumental in Adam’s journey.
The journey, which will see them
‘Adam’s Miles for Leukaemia’ will see the group walk from Newry to Belfast, then fly to Manchester to complete the journey, is expected to take them four days in total and they are inviting members of the public to join them.
If you’d like to join the B Positive team they kindly ask that you “be self-sufficient — bring your own water, food, and transport home”, “follow all safety instructions, your safety is our priority” and request “no one but the AML team on the carriageway, let’s keep this safe”.
Speaking of the team’s endeavour, Upper Bann MLA Carla Lockhart said: “David and Sara inspire me every single day and I don’t say that lightly. Their strength, love, and unwavering faith in the face of unimaginable loss really is so humbling.
“There will be many tears, smiles and moaning along the way but everyone I know will give it their absolute best.
“Special shout out to another mighty young man, Blake who has committed to walking 1 mile in May to help raise funds also. Anyone who knows Blake knows that this is a big undertaking but just epitomises the person he is and his desire to help others despite his own challenges.
“I would encourage everyone to support them in whatever way you can. Whether it’s a donation, a wave, a cheer, or a friendly toot of the horn let’s get behind them.”
The effort has already raised more than £17,600 – with their target initially set at just £1,000.
You can make a donation to the Adam’s Miles for Leukaemia fundraiser here.
