TWO inspirational youngsters, their friends and families all joined forces recently to raise money for two charities close to their hearts - British Heart Foundation Cymru (BHF) and Noah’s Ark Appeal.

Mia Lloyd from Penparc and Llew John from Efailwen took on a coastal walking challenge to raise awareness and funds for their two chosen charities and have raised more than £2,500.

They walked from Gwersyll yr Urdd, Pentre Ifan to Gersyll yr Urdd, Llangrannog over two days – a total of 30 miles.

Mia was diagnosed in May 2017 with a rare type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma.

Not only did Mia endure 10 months of gruelling and intensive chemotherapy but at 10 years of age had to make a life-changing decision to have her left leg amputated above the knee in the hope that she will be able to resume with her athletic and sporting aspirations.

Llew was born with a complex cardiac condition that has required several surgeries but he is an active, healthy 11 year old boy, living life to the full thanks to amazing research funded by BHF Cymru as well as the care he receives from the team in Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

The pair do not allow their health conditions to determine what they can or cannot do and both live a very full and active life, thanks both to the vital research carried out by the BHF and the care Mia continues to receive in Cardiff Children’s Hospital and Birmingham.

Mia said: “It was a great weekend walking with my family and friends. We had lots of fun. The terrain was very challenging but the views were stunning.

“My mum and brother walked the whole 30 miles while I did what I could manage. Lots of walkers stopped to ask what we were doing and it was a great opportunity to raise awareness of our charities.”

Llew said: “I really enjoyed the walk with my family and friends and I can’t believe the amount of money we raised - I would like to thank everyone who donated and supported us in every way.”