Three years ago I contracted a rare autoimmune disorder called Guillain-barre syndrome, which result in me going from a healthy, working dad to being paralysed overnight. Having spent some time in UHCW I felt like there was very little light at the end of the tunnel, however as I reached the 10 week mark a positive change occurred and I was transferred to The Central England Rehabilitation Unit (CERU). It was here that my rehabilitation journey really began. I spent a total of 10 weeks in this often overlooked unit and through the hard work and encouragement of the staff, they literally got me back on my feet again. From that point onward, I was able to continue my rehabilitation at home and have eventually been able to return to work part-time and can now complete most day to day tasks.

During my stay in hospital, I set myself personal goals ranging from what I wanted to achieve each day to where I hoped to be months down the line. My accomplishments ranged from my initial steps, to walking into my house and then most notably taking part in a 5 mile Santa "Jog"..... STRUGGLE! Not wanting to stop there I have decided to set myself the challenge of walking a half marathon or at least attempting to do so! Therefore on May 13th 2018 I will be participating in the Shakespeare Half Marathon in Stratford. No amount of money raised could ever repay the hospital and its wonderful staff for allowing me to have a normal life again, but hopefully anything I can raise will go some way in helping to provide others with the opportunity to access such remarkable care.

This is where your part comes in, if anyone would be so kind as to donate money towards this life changing establishment my family and I would be truly grateful and I am sure the rehabilitation unit would too.

P.S It is not too late to join us on our journey if you would like to embark on a casual 13 mile walk!