I've had a extremely narrow escape, and fully appreciate that I've been incredibly lucky. I want to give something back to those who have been less fortunate.. To do this, I need your support and you help !
In October I broke my neck playing a sport I love - rugby. On impact there was an almighty crack. It was an absolutely horrific sound ! Due to the position, I heard the noise both externally and internally, at the same time. But also horrific because of what it potentially meant.....
As I lay there motionless I experienced a terrible empty, hollow fear. A realisation that I may not move again. I lay there for several nervous minutes, stunned and scared. Finally I took a big breath and tried to raise my arm.... It worked !
It was an incredible moment for me. Suddenly I really appreciated everything I have in life and how much on a daily basis I take for granted. The various operation were also a reminder of this, but not as powerful as that initial moment.
I had an extremely narrow escape ! Just 1 mm more would have severed the spinal cord and meant a different path for me. I have a very scary MRI scan as a souvenir !
My rugby days are most definitely over ! But what an awesome opportunity to invest my time and my luck to help provide support for those individuals that are have had been less fortunate.
Spinal Research is a fantastic charity and VERY relevant. It's research aims to reverse the devastating effects of spinal damage and restore sensation and mobility to people paralysed as a result of breaking their neck or back. I'm also separately raising funds for Ben Kende, a fellow Hong Kong Football Club rugby player, just 18 years old, who also suffered a terrible injury at the same time as me.
For a challenge, to be worthy of asking for everyone I know for sponsorship, it has to be a tough challenge and test me. This means pushing it hard.
Just 7 months from breaking my neck I plan to complete "The Great Wall of China Marathon".
This is already a tough marathon due to the temperature ( circa 35 degrees and dry ), uneven surface of the wall and physical climb ( including some very big steps ).
For me, having been inactive for 3 months, and suffered some severe nerve route damage, and significant muscle loss, a marathon is ( even by my own standards ) a fairly punchy challenge.
Your help, support and your generosity are massively appreciated.
Thanks
