FAMOUS faces have joined thousands from across the world in congratulating an inspirational Basingstoke boy, who has brittle bone disease, after he completed a marathon-length cycle ride.
Max Edney cycled an incredible 26.2 miles on Sunday, May 19, around Basingstoke to raise money for the Brittle Bone Society and has so far raised more than £33,000.
The 11-year-old was diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) – also known as brittle bone – around his first birthday and since then his family, including dad Steve and mum Leanne, have taken on an array of challenges and fundraisers to not only raise money but awareness of the Brittle Bone Society.
Throughout his life, Max has broken more than 20 bones and lives with fatigue and manages chronic pain.
Before Max started preparing for the challenge he had only cycled five miles, but then moved up to eight miles, before completing a half marathon and then 20 miles.
Speaking about Sunday's ride, Steve told the Gazette: “It was unbelievable. Max cycled 26.2 miles and it took him about four hours – he dug deep to complete the challenge.
READ MORE: 'Ultimate hero' Max who suffers from brittle bones to take on marathon cycle ride
Steve, who was awarded a BEM for his services to charity in the King’s Birthday Honours last year, said Max was ‘elated and then exhausted’ after finishing the marathon ride.
Max was also backed by a famous face, Chris Evans, who invited Max on his Virgin Radio breakfast show last week and has supported the Edney family’s fundraising over the years.
“Max made a message of gratitude and sent it into Chris Evans to play on his radio show and David Beckham was listening. He then put a message on Max’s JustGiving page,” Steve added.
Beckham wrote on the fundraising page: “Max – I was so inspired to hear your story on the radio. What an incredible young man and a shining example to others.
“Congratulations on your achievements and sending love to you and your family.”
Chris Evans donated £5,000 on behalf of him and the Carfest team. He wrote: “Dear Max from everyone who has ever supported Carfest with their very best wishes.
“You and your family are truly inspirational. You are my hero.”
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Steve said: “Max is super grateful for everybody who sent him messages, he has read every single message and has done as many individual thank yous as he can.”
He continued: “Leanne and I for a decade have led the events, this is now Max coming up with his own concept. He said to us ‘I am not sure I could run 26.2 miles, but I could give it a go on a bike'. He wanted to give back to the Brittle Bone Society."
Steve and Leanne have expressed their pride at Max driving the challenge and his desire to give back to the charity.
To donate to Max's fundraiser, go to justgiving.com/page/maxmarathon.
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