In 2013 I underwent spinal surgery. Complications arose from this surgery and I temporarily lost the use of my right foot. I underwent further surgeries, and whilst I regained the ability to walk again, I was left with searing nerve pain throughout my right leg. Between 2013-2019 I struggled with pain management, switching back and forth between an isolated life of staying in bed and one of taking painkiller after painkiller, just so I could attempt the things most 20 somethings take for granted.

In 2019 I underwent my 6th spinal surgery and thankfully my symptoms are now not as debilitating as they once were, although I still grapple with pain on a daily basis. With the help of family and friends, as well as some excellent healthcare professionals, I have been able to slowly rebuild my life. 

Two of the pillars of this rebuilding process have been physical exercise and mental resilience. One of the greatest exponents of these two things is David Goggins, who has set this challenge and whom you can read chapter and verse about with a quick search online. The challenge Goggins has set is to run 4 miles, every 4 hours, for 48 hours. I am unable to run because of my spine condition, so I will be doing a 45 minute, high intensity interval training (HIIT) session every 4 hours for 48 hours. That is 12 HIIT sessions in 2 days. The highlights will include: 

- Over 1500 Push Ups

- Over 1200 Squats

- Over 5000 Jumping Jacks

and plenty more! I will post the exact workout in the days running up to the challenge.

Horatio’s Garden is a national charity creating and nurturing beautiful gardens in NHS spinal injury centres to support everyone affected by spinal injury. They grow thriving communities to support patients, their families and friends facing long stays in NHS hospitals.

Spinal cord injuries are traumatic, life-changing events. Patients often have little or no access to the outside world during their hospital stay. However, research shows that being in contact with a natural environment contributes to an improved sense of wellbeing, which can have a positive impact on patient rehabilitation. 

I am acutely aware of how life-altering spinal injuries can be, and this is why I am raising money for Horatio's Garden.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Charles