On Sunday 13th October I will be taking part in the Royal Parks Half Marathon in London, my first half Marathon in 16 years. This is going to be a big challenge for me, as I have suffered from severe back problems, due to a Rugby injury, for the last 15 years. This impacted every aspect of my life, often spending days led on the floor to relieve the pain. In 2018 (aged 37) I was given two options, surgery to fuse my spine or physical therapy. After taking everything into account, I decided against surgery and the hard work started.

Over the past 6 years I have worked hard on building strength and conditioning, and I am now at a point where I can once again do the activity I love and raise vital funds for a very special cause.

The challenges, pain and frustrations I have gone through have given me a tiny glimpse into what Veterans go through physically and mentally on a daily basis, as a result of their injuries whilst serving their country. This is the reason why I have chosen to raise crucial funds for Walking With The Wounded and support Veterans to get into work and achieve independence.

Achieving my goal of raising £400 would provide 10 Veterans with essential shoes and clothing to enable them to attend job interviews, marking the initial strides towards stability and self-reliance.

Please support me in making a difference to our veteran's lives, anything that you are able to donate will be so very gratefully received.