A group of Reds supporters are cycling from Goldthorpe to Oakwell on Saturday to raise money for Leighton Barker.
Now 22-years-old, Leighton Barker was born with a rare genetic syndrome called Hurler’s Syndrome (MPS). It is caused by a lack of enzyme that the body needs to digest sugar and as a result, molecules build up in the body which causes progressive damage to the heart, lungs, brain and other organs.
Leighton was diagnosed before the age of one and underwent a life-threatening and life-changing bone marrow transplant that meant his life expectancy of just 10-years-old increased to that of an average person.
He has many symptoms with his syndrome including curvature of his spine, bad eyesight, deafness, lung disease, halted growth, heart problems, learning disabilities and extraordinary facial features and was also on oxygen 24/7 for eight years of his life.
Libby Carsley, sister of Leighton, her partner Tommy along with friend Gary Mattrick organised this charity bike ride aiming to raise funds for a stairlift that would help ease the burden on Leighton's parents, who currently have to carry him up and downstairs.
"We've so far raised £2,000 and the pot is still growing." Libby told us.
"There is an event being hosted at the Union Jack Memorial Club in Goldthorpe after the bike ride where there will be entertainment and a prize draw.
"The more people that can help, the better. We appreciate all the support and thank Barnsley FC for helping raise awareness for Leighton."
The riders will cycle nearly 10 miles to Oakwell from Goldthorpe tomorrow.
You can donate using the link below. Good luck to those taking part!
