Hi to all,

My partner James has a severe brain injury. He was hit by a car nearly 3 years ago and since then he has been fighting hard to get his life back. I won't lie, it has been a long and painful journey and has seen our lives change completely. There are so many people who really struggle with their brain injury. Our brains are unique, so are the effects . Some sufferers may find they get more tired, have to write everything down and need structure in their day. Others may find they cannot move, cannot speak or cannot think in a way that makes sense, they are "locked in", which is just devastating. It can effect memory, coordination, paralysis, speech, swallowing, insight, words and object recognition, expression, emotional control, tiredness, the list goes on.  It can happen to any one of us and sadly, figures are rising. Charities like Headway, who support brain injury survivors and their families are needed now more than ever. The work they do is amazing and the effect can vary from brightening up someone's week to really changing their life and helping them live again. Headway run weekly sessions, which offer an extremely supportive environment for brain injury survivors to learn and have fun. There are physical programmes, educational activities and publications as well as counselling.

We make jokes about the difficult things and we never give up. Anything is possible if you are stubborn enough!! We know that we are very lucky, James is here. James laughs a lot, understands most of what goes on and knows he is well loved. And really, when it comes down to it, life can be that simple. I am running to continue supporting Headway as I am passionate about this cause and, just like my wonderful James, to never stop fighting.

This year I am joined by three friends who all have their own special reasons for running, please read their stories-

I started coming to Headway Cardiff in March 2007. Having been involved in a serious RTA I was recommended to attend the Day Centre for peer support by the community brain injury team. Through this I have been a volunteer and also a trustee for Headway Cardiff. I have been inspired to run having seen the effects of Acquired Brain Injury on fellow attenders and have seen the difference Headway Cardiff makes to their lives

Tim Banks

I have worked for Headway Cardiff since January 2007. When I first started as a support worker, I saw the role as any other in the care industry. However I soon learned what a special place Headway Cardiff is and how absolutely vital it is for those who have an Acquired Brain Injury. From talking to attenders in the Day Centre, I realised what a life blood Headway Cardiff is. It provides an opportunity for those with a brain injury to be understood, be listened to and most importantly be themselves. Headway Cardiff is a charity which offers support to any individual who has been affected by an “Acquired Brain Injury”. Having met survivors of a brain injury, and having seen first hand the experiences and ongoing battles they face, it seems a small gesture to run the half marathon in order to raise funds for such a worthwhile cause.

Michaela

I have decided to run the half marathon for a couple of reasons. This year I wanted to set myself some tough goals both in my professional life, and also from a personal point of view. Once I realised that the race fell on my 38th birthday, I decided it was fate! So I committed to it (after a few weeks deliberating!!) and have been doing the necessary training. Sometimes it’s been a struggle, but I find running a great opportunity to think, and James and Rachel are never far from my thoughts. Especially when my muscles ache and I feel I want to stop, they are an inspiration and keep me focused. I am proud to run for this charity and support two good friends who show an unbelievable amount of tenacity, and remain so positive despite everything.
 

Please dig deep and support this amazing cause. And remember - you can always join us on the day to cheer us on!!!!!!