WHEN Paul Foster steps out this Sunday for the Great Manchester 10K Run his driving force will be the courage of his seven-year-old godson.

Paul, from Haydock, is running to raise money for Holy Cross RC Primary School pupil Leo Stewart, who was diagnosed with the life-threatening genetic condition cystic fibrosis.

The unpredictable illness means that Leo’s health could take a drastic turn for the worse at any moment.

The reality of living with the disease has caused his parents, Leslie Stewart, 30, and Clare Maloney, 27, who live in Fingerpost, difficulty in tasks which others often take for granted.

Paul, 34, said: “Leo takes 40 plus tablets a day just to keep his condition under control, which can make his home life very complicated.

“Leo also misses important events at school due to hospital appointments, sometimes having to spend long periods in hospital when all his friends are going on trips, holidays and just playing.

“His mum and dad also have the task of trying to explain Leo’s condition to his four-year old sister.”

Cystic fibrosis affects vital organs such as the lungs and digestive system which are then attacked by chronic infections.

Foster hopes to contribute towards the charity which has helped the family come to grips with Leo’s terminal illness.

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust supports families and aims to raise medical standards to improve the wellbeing of sufferers.

n Sponsor Paul at justgiving.com/PaulDilligafFoster. To donate via text message, please text CFTG14 followed by £5 or £10 to 70070.