Will Schaffer, Sam Prus, Martyn Stocker, Joe Smith, and Dan Chadwick - all from Ilkley - took on the 82-mile Dales Way walk with a goal to complete the challenge in under 36 hours.
The funds raised will be split between Airedale NHS Foundation Trust’s Sunbeam Support Group which provides a welcoming space for anyone who has experienced the loss of a baby or young child and the Children’s Unit which provides hospital care for over 20,000 children and young people each year.
Between them, the dads and their families have faced neonatal emergencies, pregnancy loss, IVF, and complicated births - and each was met with extraordinary care at Airedale.
Martyn said:
“Our goal was always to complete this challenge one way or another.
"We were unfortunate with the weather on our first attempt and only managed to complete 60 miles of the 82. It became very unsafe to continue so reluctantly we decided to attempt the remaining 22 miles another day.
“It felt incredible being able to complete the full 82 miles and we’re all very grateful for everyone that has supported our fundraising efforts. To our friends, families, colleagues and community, thank you for your donations, kind words of support and for helping us to get through this challenge. We couldn’t have done it without your support.”
Each dad has a powerful and deeply personal story - and together they have taken on this challenge to give back to the hospital that helped their families through so much.
If you would like to read the stories that inspired the challenge, please visit the teams’ JustGiving page.
Jodie Hearnshaw, Airedale Hospital and Community Charity Manager said:
“We’re so grateful to Will, Sam, Martyn, Joe and Dan for taking on this epic challenge. They have inspired us from day one with their strength and determination after overcoming experiences that no family ever imagines taking place.
“We’re working closely with the respective teams here at Airedale to fund specialist equipment so future families can be supported in the same way.”
To find out more about Airedale Hospital and Community Charity and how they provide support to patients, visitors, colleagues and the community of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, visit the charity website: www.airedalecharity.org.
Community rallies to help elderly driver find 'missing' car in Skipton
Dales Dazzler trail running event returns to Skipton
Everything you need to know about Skipton Pride this weekend
Police appeal after driver forgets where car was parked in Skipton
Shoplifter caught trying to dump stolen goods in Skipton bin
Councillor breaks national fundraising record with charity head shave
Festival director facing court after cancelled Skipton event
Yorkshire marketing business raises £1,000 for Skipton children's charity
Team to push car 130 miles in extraordinary charity challenge inspired by young boy's courage
Only one more day left to enjoy Skipton Cinema Days this summer
Hundreds gather in Skipton for another successful Yorkshire Day event
Safety reminder after rubbish found in Skipton knife bin
Skipton bakery retains North Yorkshire's best bakery title for second year
MP raises Cowling speeding concerns with police and council after residents' complaints
Right at Home celebrates official opening of new office
Wanted man found hiding in wardrobe during Skipton arrest
Addingham Beer Festival returns this October
Nominations open for Local Pub Awards 2026 for Skipton and Ripon
Campaigners hand in petition over doubling of second homes council tax
Skipton Live Reveals 42-Act Line-up for First Ever Music Festival
