A six-year-old boy, once told he wouldn't walk before five, has defied the odds and conquered six miles, walking one for every year of his life.

Six miles might seem like a small feat for an adult, but for Hector Macintyre, it's a monumental achievement.

When he was 13 months old, Hector was diagnosed with Level 3 autism and hydrocephalus and was not expected to walk before the age of five.

Hector Hector (Image: Family picture)

This year, Hector’s Walk was for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), the Armed Forces charity.

Alongside routine support for the UKAF community, SSAFA offers specific support to serving families with a member living with a disability through its Short Breaks scheme and FANDF, the Forces Additional Needs and Disability Forum.

Hector lives with his mum and dad – Rob and Ayeasia – and younger brothers Bertie and Rufus, as well as black lab Bess.

Rob and Ayeasia say that Hector 'inspires us all to believe in the power of perseverance and love'Rob and Ayeasia say that Hector 'inspires us all to believe in the power of perseverance and love' (Image: SSAFA) Rob has spent 14 years so far in the Royal Navy at RNAS Culdrose, in Cornwall, on Merlin helicopters as a Senior Mechanical Supervisor, and Ayeasia is a Safeguarding Lead for disabled and autistic people in the NHS.

Though Hector currently does not use words, he expresses himself through non-word sounds, with gestures, and via a communication board.

Hector’s dad Rob shared how this year was a very special milestone for the six-year-old. He said: “This year, we were thrilled to celebrate a very special milestone for Hector. This journey is not just a personal triumph but also a heartfelt mission to raise funds for families and children in need.”

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He inspires us all to believe in the power of perseverance and love

Rob and Ayeasia, Hector's parents 

Hector’s parents are understandably proud of him. They added: “Hector has always been a fighter, and his determination has defied all odds and is not only walking but also spreading joy and hope with every step he takes.

He inspires us all to believe in the power of perseverance and love, and his birthday walk has become a beacon of hope, showing that with support and determination, incredible things are possible.”

Hector (far right with his dad) and members of the family Hector (far right with his dad) and members of the family (Image: SSAFA)

Hector’s birthday hike took place in late September, but donations can still be made so that his inspirational efforts can help SSAFA support more people – children and families of the Armed Forces community, serving or retired – each day.

So far, £640 has been raised for SSAFA. To donate, visit justgiving.com/page/hectorshike2024.

To find out more about the services SSAFA offers, visit https://www.ssafa.org.uk/.