RAF heroes’ epic hike to demand free prescriptions

Two RAF heroes have walked 164 miles to Downing Street with a petition demanding free ­prescriptions for sufferers with uncommon genetic ailments.

Squadron Leader Nick Smith, 39, whose two-year-old daughter Charlotte has cystic fibrosis, set out from Wolverhampton to accomplished the five-day Trek For Charlie with pal Squadron Leader Liam Summerfield, 41.

The pair, who’ve raised greater than £9,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, mentioned they confronted bodily and psychological limitations finishing the hike in 30C warmth – however that it was price it.

Nick, primarily based at RAF Shawbury, Shrops, mentioned: “I actually hit some powerful moments on the stroll. We had educated for it however by no means anticipated to do it in a heatwave. I keep in mind on Thursday, we had already completed 12 miles that day however the warmth was insufferable. I wasn’t certain I might go on.

“Liam was good and saved pushing me on. Each day we needed to get right into a rhythm to maintain going, taking part in video games like title soccer groups from A to Z. Our toes have been so sore every step felt like we have been strolling on damaged glass.

“And whenever I was at my lowest ebb I would think about my Charlie and tell myself to keep moving as I’m doing this to help her future, and all the others with this cruel condition.”

Liam added: “I’ve done a few challenges before for charity, so knew I could probably handle this but I must admit it tested my endurance massively.

“I loved it but it was really tough and I knew deep down I wanted to make damn sure Nick made it and just be there steady alongside him. The fact it was for such a great cause added to the sense of victory and achievement.”

In March, the Daily Express joined the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as it handed Rishi Sunak some 1,300 signed NHS prescriptions, asking that he finally makes CF sufferers exempt from paying for them.

In 1968, chronic illnesses like diabetes and epilepsy were included in a list of conditions warranting free prescriptions, a list never updated in the 55 years since. Many genetic diseases like CF were missed out.

Nick and Liam were joined by the Express on Saturday to hand over the petition, along with Charlotte, Nick’s wife Amber, 29, Liam’s wife Louise, 39, and their daughter India. Our Cystic Fibrosis Crusade has long called for better measures.

The Department of Health said: “Around 89 percent of prescriptions are free on the NHS in England.

“Patients with long-term circumstances or on a low earnings can apply for prescription cost exemptions or further assist by means of the NHS Low Income Scheme and may purchase pre-payment certificates for simply over £2 per week.”