I'm running to help save lives in London
Ten years ago, in January 2017, I was involved in a road traffic accident where I was knocked off my bike by a heavy goods vehicle. The lorry broke my back, ran over my leg and caused a spinal cord injury. I was rescued by the London Air Ambulance ground crew and taken to the Royal London Hospital where I spent two months there having three surgeries and then was transferred to Stanmore rehab where I spent a further three months. I was in a wheelchair for a year but eventually I learnt to walk again. LAA played no small part in my recovery. My rescuers gave me my best chance right at the beginning. Then with the help of Frank Chege (patient liaison) and his invaluable advice (that I still refer to, to this day especially in my marathon training) and encouragement I achieved and progressed much more than would have been possible without that support. Even since before this accident, it was a goal of mine to run a marathon. In fact it was my new year's resolution for 2017. I had bought the gear and even started a new playlist that I still use to this day called 'running'. The new shoes I bought remained unscuffed as I wore them in my wheelchair. Ten years on I am finally in the best shape I have ever been in. I have been finally able to get on top of all the knock -on effects of the accident and really focus on my fitness. I am determined more than ever and as it will be the ten year anniversary since my accident, it felt only right to have the honour to run for LAA to help fundraise for others in dire situations so they can receive the life changing help they need just like I did. I haven't even mentioned the mental health side of it all, the biggest challenge I believe. But the support and kindness I received from LAA, my friends and family, saved me. I will forever be grateful. I can't wait to cross that finish line for that whole community behind me and for all the future communities who will benefit greatly from the LAA organisation
London’s Air Ambulance is the charity that delivers an advanced trauma team to London’s most seriously injured patients. Your donation will help save more lives by keeping the helicopter in the air and the rapid response cars on the road, ready for when they are needed most. By providing intervention as quickly as possible after injury, London’s Air Ambulance Charity aims to give patients the best chance of survival, and best quality of life, after trauma.
I will be taking part in the TCS London Marathon 2027 running with the London's Air Ambulance Charity Team. Please give what you can to help save lives in London.
