A STUDENT is raising money for a charity that provided a home for his parents while he underwent brain surgery.

Duncan Cathie endured two operations including a craniotomy at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital after he was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma in April 2012 following severe headaches.

His parents were able to stay at Ronald McDonald House during his stints in hospital and now he is looking to repay the favour by completing the Three Peaks Challenge.

“It meant that I knew when I woke up my parents would be at my bedside within minutes. I was happier because I knew I always had my family nearby,” said Duncan, from Lowton.

The 18-year-old, who studies at Priestley College in Warrington, underwent two intrusive operations – one lasting 13 hours – and was in hospital for his 17th birthday.

His family have already raised more than £2,000 for Ronald McDonald House, which needs up to £500,000 a year to remain open.

“Imagine if you were a parent who had a child going in for surgery but couldn’t stay by their bed because you had to travel home or back to a hotel,” he said.

Duncan has been in training to make sure he is fully fit for ascents of Snowdon, Scafell and Ben Nevis on July 22 and 23.

Visit justgiving.com/ mchouse or text Dunk48 and the amount you want to give to 70070.