THE recent death of a Maryport photographer who had muscular dystrophy has inspired his friend to make attempts on the UK’s highest mountains.
Peter Westwood is preparing to climb the 'three peaks' in memory of his close friend Jordan Mossom, who lost his life earlier this year, aged just 25.
Jordan lived with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a rare and life-limiting genetic muscle-wasting condition that causes the muscles in the body to become weak and damaged over time.
Peter, 27, from Darlaston, West Midlands, said: “I wanted to do something to help raise money for people that live with the same condition as Jordan. He was a close friend and I really miss him."
Throughout July, Peter will be taking on the UK's three highest mountains - Snowdon, in Wales, Scafell Pike, in England, and Ben Nevis, in Scotland.
He is fundraising for Muscular Dystrophy UK, a national charity that supports people living with muscle-wasting conditions.
READ MORE: Photographer who beat the odds dies at 25
Peter and Jordan had known each other for six years - after meeting online. “We met through social media, and there was so much about Jordan that made us keep in touch," Peter said.
"He was always lovely and caring, and was always there for me when I needed him, as was I for him.
“Like me, Jordan loved photography, and we bonded over that. While my love for trains wasn't as big as his, it was certainly another thing we did bond over.
"He was someone I was close with despite the distance. He achieved such a lot in his life.”
Jordan studied photography at university, and specialised in documentary, railway, transport and landscape photography.
He used photography as a way to document his own life living with Duchenne and to raise awareness of what it is like to live with the condition.
Jordan’s sister, Hannah Mossom, said, “Jordan was an beautiful, inspiring young man. He is truly missed by his family and friends.
"We wish more people understood what muscular dystrophy is to spread more awareness and hopefully one day someone will find a cure.
“It’s so comforting to see how much Jordan was loved by so many people, and hopefully donations will go towards finding a cure for this condition.”
Peter is walking a minimum of 30 miles a week religiously in the lead up to the Three Peaks challenge.
READ MORE: Talented photographer graduates – in spite of challenges he faces every day
He said: “I know the Three Peaks will take a lot out of me, and at times it will be tough, but thinking of Jordan will help me push through. I’m feeling nervous but I’m excited for the challenge and to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy UK.
"I’ve thought a lot about the walks I want to do in the run up to the day – for example, I’ve chosen certain routes that pass near train stations that remind me of Jordan.
"This is my first ever fundraiser and I’m doing it for Jordan.”
'A condition for which there is currently no cure'
Charles Horton, regional development manager, Wales, South West and West Midlands at Muscular Dystrophy UK, said: “Peter and Jordan shared a special bond and it’s so sad that Jordan’s life was cut short as a result of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition for which there is currently no cure.
"Peter is taking on a big challenge in his memory, and we are so grateful for all the time and training he’s putting in.
"Funds raised will help us at the charity fund further research into muscle wasting conditions and support people living with them.
"We really do hope to find a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.”
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