“If running this 50km meant finding a cure for my sister, I’d run it a thousand times over”A woman from Sandy is preparing to take on a 50km Ultra Challenge this September, inspired by her younger sister’s courage after losing her sight as a teenager due to a rare genetic condition.Lillie (right) is taking on the challenge for her sister Esme (left). | Lillie Prentice22‑year‑old Lillie Prentice has signed up for the Chiltern 50 Ultra Challenge, a gruelling 50km route through the Chiltern Hills to raise money for Guide Dogs, a charity that has been a lifeline for her family.She is running for Guide Dogs. | Lillie PrenticeLillie’s sister, 17‑year‑old Esmé, was diagnosed with Stargardt disease, a rare genetic condition that causes progressive vision loss, when she was just 14. Just a year later, she was registered blind. This was a devastating shock for the whole family.“It has been a challenge for her to adapt to this new way of life,” Lillie said, “The battles she faces every day make this 50km run feel like nothing in comparison. She inspires me constantly with her resilience.”Despite her diagnosis, Esmé is now studying at a performing arts college and refuses to let her disability define her. Guide Dogs has supported her throughout her journey by providing large‑print materials, connecting her with blind‑community support groups, and helping her prepare for future independence. She doesn’t currently have a guide dog as she still lives at home, but will join the waitlist for one once she is living independently.“I know that having a guide dog will give her the freedom to become whoever she wants to be,” Lillie said, “That’s why this charity means so much to me.”Training a single guide dog costs over £35,000 and with only around 5,000 guide dogs currently working across the UK, fundraising is vital to help meet demand. Stargardt disease has no cure or treatment, and Lillie hopes her challenge will raise awareness of childhood and adolescent blindness as well as funds for the charity.“We were unaware of Esmé’s condition until she started showing symptoms,” she said. “Our family has learned so much about blindness, and I want to help educate others too.”This isn’t Lillie’s first time supporting sight‑loss charities either. Two years ago, she ran a half marathon to raise money for Moorfields Eye Hospital and with this 50k challenge she is pushing herself further than ever before.The Chiltern 50 Ultra Challenge takes runners and walkers through Chiltern’s incredible countryside and features rolling hills, historic trails and nature reserves. Along with the full 50k, a 25k and 10k option are available, with food, rest stops and on-route support provided at all Ultra Challenge events.Continue Reading