My brother, Phil, is AWESOME!  Like, literally...the most awesome, awe-inspiring person you could meet.

Phil has spina bifida and hydrocephalus and on top of that, he suffered a stroke in 2019.  What was already a challenging way of life for him suddenly become exponentially harder.  Very soon into Phil's recovery, he was told that he may lose the mobility on his strongest side and may not be able to walk again.  My brother, being the total hero that he is, smashed expectations and decided to prove everyone wrong.  He managed to practise his exercises daily and regain some mobility and control down his right hand side and even walk with only the aid of his walking sticks, just like before the stroke.  Total legend.

Unfortunately, Phil's age, along with his conditions, keep putting blockers in his way.  Phil's spinal cord has tethered to such an extent that it is becoming too painful for him to sit or stand comfortably for any reasonable length of time - for someone who cannot feel from the waist down, I can't even begin to imagine how much pain he must be in.

Yet, despite all of this, Phil talks of all the places he wants to visit and things he wants to go and do.  He honestly is the most determined person I know.  He's my hero.

My family didn't have the support that Shine can provide other families in this position when Phil was younger.  My parents have endured countless battles and sacrificed more than I will ever know to support my brother.  I am running for Shine because I want to raise awareness of these conditions and for others to know that there is support out there.  In the darker days, I always hope there will be Shine for those that need it.

**************************************************************

Shine provides specialist support from before birth and throughout the life of anyone living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, as well as to parents, families, carers and professional care staff. Shine enables people to get the best out of life. Everything we do is made possible by our generous supporters. Your fundraising efforts help individuals and families in your local communities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every donation has the potential for profound impact. THANK YOU for supporting Shine!