Cystic fibrosis sufferer Rob Tomlinson completed a 5km fundraising challenge as a new medication continues to “work wonders” for him.
Rob, aged 38, was diagnosed with the genetic condition — which affects the lungs and digestive system — aged two-and-a-half, since when it has controlled what he is able to do.
But during September he began taking a new medication, Kaftrio, which has quickly boosted his lung function and allowed him to literally make greater strides.
And during that time, Rob — Penrith Cricket Club’s fourth team captain in 2020 and a junior coach — has built up training jogs with his sights set on a 5km MyPoppyRun which he completed on Remembrance Sunday using the town’s Parkrun course.
“It went really well. I had just trained down at Frenchfield, building the distance,” he said.
“Every run I did I tried to go that little bit further, slightly quicker as well. It built me up until I was almost there. I hadn’t done a 5k, so on the day that was the challenge, to make it to 5k.
“It was very hard. I was absolutely shattered at the end. But it was really enjoyable as well.”
Rob, who is married to Kerry and works as a maintenance assistant at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, near Penrith, completed the run with his 13-year-old son Keigan.
“It was lovely. He supported me all the way,” said Rob.
There was generous backing, too, from the cricket club, friends, family, colleagues and neighbours who have helped him to raise hundreds of pounds in aid of the Royal British Legion.
“It’s been amazing,” he said.
And, seven weeks into his Kaftrio treatment, Rob, of Bowscar, is still reporting a “massive improvement”.
“I’m a different person. It’s just general happiness, feeling really well,” he said.
“I just feel more normal to be honest. It’s working wonders. I can feel each day my body changes.
“It has its challenges as well. It affects your stomach, for example, but I’m learning to live with that.”
To donate, click here.
