Sheffield teenager’s 5k-a-day for ill friend

Joe, who was born with a heart defect which affects the way it functions, said his friend’s charity efforts were “lovely”.

“It’s nice to know you’ve got people supporting you. It’s quite a lonely time being in hospital,” he said.

Joe, who had to stay in hospital for three weeks while recovering from the infection and is now being treated as an outpatient, said his illness had meant he was forced to take time off from football, which the teenagers played together.

“It’s just stop and start all the time, I miss half the season,” said Joe.

“It’s a bit frustrating, having to sit on the sidelines and watch everyone else play.”

Joe said he hoped to return to the pitch soon as his condition improved.