Going the distance

Starting on Friday 25 September, Paul, 65 years old and originally from Essex, is pledging to dust off his trainers and go the distance for the charity by walking daily laps of the specialist neurological care centre for 26 consecutive days.

Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre The Chantry specialises in neurological care, rehabilitation and support tailored to the individual needs of people with a range of neurological conditions and is where Paul recovered from life-changing surgery, which left his mobility and ability to walk severely affected.

This is the second time that Paul, who is a big sports fan and avid supporter of Ipswich Town F.C, has really tested his fitness, having completed a 5K sponsored walk in 2019. He is now determined to push himself to the limit and raise as much money as possible for the centre, which provides expert care for people with a range of neurological conditions such as Huntington’s Disease, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and acquired brain injury.

Invaluable support

Speaking about his upcoming challenge, Paul said: “The team at Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre The Chantry has provided me with invaluable support over the last seven years, not only helping me to walk properly but also helping me focus on becoming independent and doing things for myself.

“I really wanted to give something back and show my appreciation for the great care I’ve received, especially this year during lockdown, which left us all feeling a bit isolated and frustrated. I’d be so delighted if I could raise as much as possible for the centre.”

“Paul’s story and his determination to regain his mobility and independence is inspiring. We are delighted to have played an important part in his recovery”

Also commenting on Paul’s fundraising efforts, Jo Marshall, Centre Director at Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre The Chantry, said: “A brain injury can be devastating for the person involved and their family. Paul’s story and his determination to regain his mobility and independence is inspiring. We are delighted to have played an important part in his recovery.

“We have been supporting people here in Ipswich for 25 years, providing medium and long term care for people with complex neurological conditions and specialist neurological rehabilitation. The money raised by Paul’s ‘26 miles in 26 days’ challenge will help create the best environment for our clients to thrive in their everyday lives, therapy sessions and social activities. I really hope that his efforts will encourage anyone out there in a position to donate to get in touch.”

Find out further information on Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre The Chantry, the specialist neurological care, rehabilitation and support they provide, plus other ways you can help them to be there when it matters.