Mum and son complete Father's Day climb for Mind and 'kind hearted' dad

On Sunday, June 19, Patrice Ruck and her son Gio took on the challenge in memory of Paul Cheshire, who passed away on January 21, 2020, aged 52.

Despite struggling up a steep route to the 1,085m Snowdon summit, Gio was a dedicated arm of support to his mum and reminded her who the challenge was for. 

Paul Cheshire passed away aged 52 in January 2020

Raising money for mental health charity Mind, Patrice, from Newton-le-Willows, said: "We took one of the hardest routes to the top of the mountain and I really didn't think I was going to make it as my legs were like jelly.

"It was so steep but Gio just looked at me and said: 'Come on Mum, I believe in you. We're doing this for Grandad and all the other sick people.

"I nearly started crying in the middle of a mountain but there was no way we were turning back after that."

Patrice and Gio at the summit of Snowdon

Describing her dad as a "massive character" who always liked to help others, Patrice has followed in his footsteps since his death and fundraised for various charities to help those struggling or less fortunate.

Since getting through the turmoil of his untimely passing, Patrice, who works as a barmaid, said she now has a "positive mindset" on the situation and wants to help as many people as she can in his memory.

Gio was a necessary arm of support for his mum during the climb

Patrice, 30, added: "My dad's death was such a massive shock and it's just not something you expect to happen to you or your family.

"After he passed, I promised myself I would raise money, not just for him, but for all the other people suffering from mental health problems and their families who are left behind. 

"I think my dad would be so proud, especially of Gio, as he loved his grandad to bits and was so determined to finish the challenge with me."

To support Patrice and Gio's challenge and donate towards Mind, visit their fundraising link here.

Gio with his grandad Paul who he "loved to bits"