Larbert teen completed 5k a day in October following dad's stroke

Carrie Mitchell’s impressive feat was born out of her desire to show support for her dad, Euan (49), during his recovery and raise money for Stroke Association.

The Larbert 16-year-old’s extraordinary efforts in October are made all the more remarkable by the fact she has no running background.

After picking out and completing a number of different routes herself, Carrie was supported along the way by her family.

To her delight, the Larbert High School pupil managed to finish the final day with her dad by her side as the pair clocked up the last few kilometres round The Helix in Falkirk.

It was a touching moment for the family following Euan’s stroke on September 8 which left him unable to speak for four days and without movement in his right arm.

The police officer, who has been working with a Forth Valley speech therapist and physios, made it his goal to walk with his daughter.

Step-mum Nikki Mitchell said: “It was really nice.

“It was hard. He’s making great improvement. The NHS have been amazing.

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“Her dad and the good cause were Carrie’s focus for keeping with it. She has completed this with determination through all weather conditions.

“She found her feet got sore because she’s not used to it. Some days she was running, others she was walking.

“She was juggling it with her part-time job and school. In the middle she said it was a bit of a struggle but she was motivated and got on with it and got it done.

“Initially she wanted to raise £100 and her page has over £2700 now.

“She was really motivated. She did various routes in Larbert round the hospital and in Brightons.

“She also went along the canal and during the October break she did a few in St Andrews.”

To make a donation to Carrie’s JustGiving page, click here.

To find out more information about Stroke Association and the support it offers, visit the charity’s website.

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