Determined Wrexham teenager to launch Hope House Llangollen Canal Walk

A determined Wrexham teenager will launch the Llangollen Canal Walk to support Hope House Children’s Hospice, just weeks after having an operation.

Elodie-Mae Davies, 15, will send ramblers on their way for the 10-mile walk on Sunday, March 6, which raises money to support and care for seriously ill local children and their families.

Elodie, who lives with her family in Ruabon, has had heart defects since birth which have led to a cardiac arrest, clots in her lungs and mini-strokes.

She has been through 10 open heart surgeries and has a pacemaker fitted.

The doctors recently discovered she has pulmonary vein stenosis, and as a result, Elodie has lost her left lung and only has 83 per cent functionality of her right one.

This means she requires oxygen 24-hours-a-day to allow her to breath. Last year she raised an incredible £2,500 by walking the virtual Take A Hike event – walking 10-miles spread out over a number of weeks.

“Hope House gives me confidence and independence,” says Elodie. “I love visiting and seeing all the staff, it’s a big family.”

Elodie will have to undergo an operation two weeks before the event, but is determined to send walkers on their way and will make the trip over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in a wheelchair.

“We are so lucky to have Hope House in our lives and I don’t know what we would do without them,” says mum Jenna. “Elodie just wants to help and give a little something back when and where she can.”

Returning after a two year break the circular Llangollen Canal Walk, sponsored by Net World Sports, will begin at The Trevor Basin in the morning, then taking in five miles of stunning scenery up to the Poachers’ Pocket and returning over the world-famous aqueduct.

For those who would prefer to complete a 10-mile walk virtually on a route of their choice then tickets are also available for that option too.

Fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: “We’re delighted Elodie will be there to start off the Llangollen Canal Walk, especially after she raised such an amazing amount last year.

“Every walker that takes part will receive a medal designed especially for this event and a goody bag for their efforts.

“This really is one of the highlights in our calendar, and tickets are selling fast, so book your places today to avoid disappointment.”

Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for children and can be purchased here on the Hope House Hospice website.