A Harrogate woman is set to take on the London Marathon later this month whilst pushing her dad in his wheelchair.
Katy Wright is taking on the historic race on 27th April alongside her dad Tony, whilst fundraising for Brain Research UK.
Tony was hit by a car in 2011 and suffered a brain stem bleed, which ultimately left him paralysed.
He spent weeks in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit at Leeds General Infirmary and was told his future was “uncertain.”
Katy said:
“Months of treatment and rehab meant he could eventually come home, but we were told he would never walk again and possibly never speak, eat or drink.
“Amongst other things, he acquired a condition called Ataxia, something there is still no treatment or cure for.”
Before his accident, Tony was a keen runner and was able to take on the Great North Run twice with his daughter.
The pair have acquired one of ten assisted wheelchair places in this year’s London Marathon, which allows up to four supported runners.
Speaking about her fundraising for Brain Research UK, Katy said:
“The care he received at Leeds NIU was incredible, as was the specialist neuro-rehabilitation which meant that after a year he could eat and communicate verbally again.
“Brain Research UK fund lifesaving research along with research to reduce the impact of neurological conditions to help people live better and longer.
“It's so important their work can carry on to improve the outcomes for people who experience neurological conditions or injury.”
Katy and Tony will be supported by friends David, Alix and Meg.
David, who is Katy’s boyfriend, said:
“It's beyond a pleasure to be supporting Katy and taking on the challenge of a marathon.
“Those who know me know I'm not for long distance running, but a little over a year after losing someone close to me, completing a marathon as part of this team, for a great cause, feels particularly timely and inspiring in the best way possible.”
Meg added:
“Running a marathon is a daunting challenge, but knowing we’re making a difference for individuals who have been in a similar situation to Tony is truly motivating.
“I’m looking forward to coming together as a team and supporting each other every step of the way!”
Read more of Katy’s story and support her fundraising campaign here.
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