An inspirational boy who was told he would never walk has conquered one of the highest summits in Britain to raise money for a charity which supports him.
Seven-year-old Jacob Tompkins, from Hatfield Peverel, completed the charity challenge with mum Abbie and grandad James last week. Jacob was described as a “miracle baby” when he survived after being born with a severe brain injury. His heart was not beating, and it took doctors 22 minutes to resuscitate him and get him breathing.
Parents Abbie and Laura, who have two other children, were told Jacob would never walk or talk. But inspirational Jacob battled against the odds and can now do both.
Last year he ran a mile a day for 50 days to raise £2,000 for charity.
The courageous youngster has now conquered all 3,560ft of Mount Snowdon – the highest peak in Wales – with his mum and grandad in just seven hours.
Proud parents Abbie and Laura said: “Jacob absolutely smashed it. We’re just so proud of him.
“We all made sure he was well looked-after and supported during the day, and he was just smiling and enjoying himself the whole time.
“He’s completely fine and was running about playing football a few nights later.
“The whole experience was amazing and the views across Snowdonia were incredible.
“We’d just like to thank everyone who has donated so far – every pound will make a big difference.”
Jacob has raised about £2,000 for the Dream Factory, which fulfils wishes for children and young adults with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions or severe disabilities.
He is an ambassador for the charity, which helped him visit Lapland UK in 2021.
He was supported in his Snowdon trek by company County Broadband, which donated hundreds of pounds worth of climbing gear and equipment and distributed thousands of leaflets to help spread awareness of the charity climb.
Regional sales manager Sid Verrier said: “Jacob is a huge inspiration to everyone here at County Broadband and we would like to send our heartfelt congratulations to him and his amazing family who supported him every step of the way to reach the summit of Mount Snowdon.”
To donate to Jacob’s campaign visit justgiving.com/page/jacob-tompkins-snowdon.