Bradford boy with rare genetic order to tackle Pen-y-ghent

The youngster, Jayden Young, a pupil at Thackley Primary School, is all set for a charity climb of Pen-y-ghent later this month.

His dad, Alistair Young, said: "Our little boy, Jayden, 9, and from Thackley, has a rare genetic disorder called Noonan's Syndrome.

Jayden Young, 9, who has Noonan's Syndrome (Image: UGC)

"This means that he, like other children with the same condition, was born with one less gene than everyone else.

"Children with Noonan's Syndrome don't develop as well as other young children. He's emotionally young for his age. He also has difficulty with heart and sight issues.

"We have decided that we want to raise money for the Noonan's Syndrome Association, a charity that works to improve the future outcomes of children and adults with Noonan's Syndrome."

Mr Young said: "They call it the most common syndrome that no one has ever heard of.

"We recently attended a Noonan's family get together, which was really good as Jayden got to meet other children like him who also have Noonan's Syndrome.

"People need to be more aware about this genetic condition, so we can generate more funds to research it.

"We are therefore going to climb Pen-y-ghent in the Yorkshire Dales on Wednesday, October 26.

"This will be a big challenge for Jayden but he is really determined.

"We own a caravan not far from the Yorkshire Dales.

"I've done the Yorkshire Three Peaks before, but climbing Pen-y-ghent will be a real battle for Jayden.

"But he's keen to do it because he wants to encourage people to donate to the charity.

Jayden Young, 9, will tackle Pen-y-ghent with family and friends (Image: UGC)

"We're doing it as a family. We have some friends and our two dogs, Leo and Bella, who will be coming too.

"It'll be our focus to get him up and down again."

Pen-y-ghent is 2,277 feet high and the walk will be around seven to eight miles.

However, Mr Young is confident Jayden is all set for the challenge.

"He's an active little lad who really enjoys his swimming.

"For Jayden this will be a massive challenge," said Mr Young. "But he is taking on this challenge to show what kids with Noonan's Syndrome can achieve."

Jayden's family, who live at Idle, have set a goal to raise at least £500 for the charity.

To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/alistair-young3

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