I have been runstreaking for almost 7 years and it's been an epic journey of finding out what my body is capable of doing, whilst appreciating that I am able to move it daily. The runstreak will end one day, but whilst I am able to run daily and it brings me joy I will carry on.

The ability to move however, is something we all take for granted. From getting out of bed, to brushing out teeth and dressing ourselves. Life can change in an instant. None of us know whats around the corner and can take away our ability to move freely.

Those who have experienced a spinal injury have to adjust to living life with various levels of limited mobility. Studies have shown that activity based physiotherapy can be life changing.

Physically active individuals with SCI reduce the risk of secondary issues such as respiratory illness, pressure sores and urinary tract infections. Having professional help from an experienced neuro physio can manage problems such as spasticity, chronic pain and weight gain. There are also things like preventing bone density deterioration and muscle wastage to consider. In addition to the physical benefits, there are also huge psychological gains to be had.

This is where charities like Rooprai Spinal Trust are vital. I came across Marrianne and Andy in 2019 through mutual friends and have been an active supporter of the incredible work they do to help those with SCI (Spinal Chord Injuries).

Marrianne herself was in a car accident in 2004 and she went from an active young woman living life fully and travelling the world to adjusting to a life being unable to move from her shoulders down and being wheelchair bound. Yet this incredible woman is a powerhouse. Therapy is not about expecting miracles, it’s always been about progress. Progress for the mind and body. Marginal gains add up. When you have a high level of paralysis like Marrianne, those marginal gains can be life changing. Whether it’s building up the strength to feed herself independently, being able to send a text without assistance, gaining enough core strength to not need a safety strap in her wheelchair, the list of positives goes on and that’s not to mention the obvious health benefits of keeping in shape. Being a high level tetraplegic doesn’t mean you can’t look after your body.

It's been incredible watching the real every day life changing impact this physiotherapy has had on Marianne and the many individuals I've seen receive support from them over the last 6 years.

I have fundraised for them before and felt like my biggest challenge to date - pushing my body to it's absolute limits - it would be an ideal opportunity to dedicate this challenge to TEAM RST.

Whats the challenge you ask?

6 Ultra Marathons in 6 Months - Starting on April 6th 2025.

I shall be attempting to complete the Pegasus Grand Slam, a set of 6 Ultramarathons set in the beautiful and hilly trails of Wales.

6 events, 220 miles of running and 23,515ft ft of elevation. Gulp. What was I thinking signing up to take this on?!

April 5th – The CANUM - 40 Miles

May 3rd – The HOWUM - 30 Miles

June 7th – The VOGUM - 40 miles

July 5th – The PIGUM - 30 miles

August 2nd – The EDDUM - 50 miles

September 6th – The RIDUM - 30 miles

This scares me to my absolute core. I haven't even run 6 ultra marathons let alone all in one year!! I genuinely don't know if I can do this. My body may say no and give up. But what I do know is that there is only one way to find out. I'll train hard but sensibly and give my absolute best shot.

So if you are still reading this and wish to support me in my little adventure in gorgeous Wales, both Rooprai Spinal Trust and I will be over the moon. Helping others with life changing spinal chord injuries whilst feeling so appreciative of what my body enables me to do every day is what is driving me on this challenge.

With a heart full of gratitude and a bottle of positive energy I start my training plan.

Wish me luck xx

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