Some children dream of being astronauts, footballers, or YouTube stars. But 10-year-old Jacob Newson’s mission is something far more heartfelt: honouring his mum’s memory, one mountain at a time.
In a society where we’re constantly bombarded with bad news, Jacob’s story is the ray of British sunshine we all desperately need. This remarkable young lad from Leeds has already raised over £150,000 for charity – a figure that would be impressive for a seasonal fundraiser, let alone a primary school boy who’s endured so much heartache from a young age.
Get your tissues ready, mums and dads, as we dive into this extraordinary story of a pint-sized hero. Cheers to you, little guy!
Finding Strength In The Steepest Places
Back in 2020, Jacob’s whole world was turned upside down when his mum, Andrea, passed away at just 49 years old.
At the tender age of seven (an age where we’re squabbling with our kids about household chores), Jacob found himself facing the unimaginable.
“I remember him saying he was the only boy in the world who had lost his mum,” recalls Dad, Andy.
St Gemma’s Hospice in Leeds became a lifeline for this father-son duo, providing not just care for Andrea in her final days but also helping the pair with phenomenal bereavement support.
The hospice took little Jacob under their wing, introducing him to other children who had experienced similar losses and helping him realise he wasn’t alone in his grief.
“They have been absolutely fantastic. He’s been amazing at coping, with support from his school and particularly from the hospice who do wonderful things with bereaved children.”
And how did young Jacob choose to express his gratitude? A simple “thank you” card would have sufficed, but not for this kid! He decided to embark on a series of increasingly ambitious fundraising challenges that would leave most adults quaking in their (hiking) boots!
Affectionately known as ‘Jacob the Pilot’ for his passion for planes and flying, he teamed up with the RAF Regiment to take on their gruelling assault course. From there, he set his sights even higher – climbing mountains like Ben Nevis and smashing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, all while proudly wearing his mini RAF flying suit.
“I remember the people that helped Mummy,” Jacob simply says; “I just want to do something for them.”
Young Fundraising Hero
While many kids might spend their school holidays playing Fortnite or drinking slushies in the park, Jacob has been busy ticking off achievements that would put Bear Grylls to shame!
- Completed the RAF Regiment’s gruelling assault course.
- Conquered Ben Nevis, Scotland’s highest peak (1,345 m).
- Tackled the 38.6 km Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.
- Climbed North Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Toubkal (4,167 m).
- Walked across the Pyrenees from France to Spain (430 km).
And if you’re wondering if this is just a phase, think again. Jacob already has his eyes set on his next adventure. As his dad puts it, “He’s amazing; he never gives up.”
More than just numbers
With over £150,000 raised for St Gemma’s Hospice and the RAF Benevolent Fund, Jacob’s impact is undeniable and certainly tugs on the heartstrings. But the true value of his efforts goes far beyond the impressive monetary figure.
For dad and lad, these challenges have become precious bonding experiences – opportunities for a hurting father and son to heal together and create new memories while making an impact, one step at a time.
“He loves going on these adventures, and it’s quality time for us, time where we can talk,” says Dad. “I don’t think he fully comprehends just how much he has raised.”
For those who follow Jacob’s journey, it’s a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, we can find purpose and strength in the steepest places.
Award recognition
It’s not just us who think Jacob is extraordinary. His incredible efforts earned him the Good Morning Britain Young Fundraiser of the Year award at the 2024 Pride of Britain ceremony. A moment that his dad says would have brought “lots of tears” from his late mum.
Yet, despite the national recognition, humble little Jacob’s motivation remains beautifully simple: “I just want to make Mummy happy in heaven.”
(We’re not crying, you’re crying!)
The Conversation Continues
Jacob’s journey is far from over. With his grit, his dad’s support and his mum’s memory guiding him, there’s seriously no mountain too tall for him to climb.
So, the next time your kid asks for another hour on their iPad or complains about walking the dog, perhaps share Jacob’s story with them. Not to make them feel guilty, but to show them what amazing things young people are capable of when they set their minds to something meaningful.
Yes, we all have struggles, but this story certainly has put my “problems” into perspective. How about you?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s keep this conversation going!
Keep up with Jacob’s latest adventures on his Facebook & X pages.
