Overcoming life-changing challenges including stroke and loss of loved ones, the preparation of local runners for the London Marathon is well underway.
Paul Metham, 41, from Sheffield, is raising money for the Stroke Association after he suffered a carotid artery dissection in 2021 when out running. Doctors told him he was “minutes from death”.
Paul said: “It has been a lot more difficult. Despite my good recovery, my left side doesn’t operate as it once did. I lost a lot of general fitness and muscle definition the year I couldn’t run.
“Before my stroke, I completed a half marathon in 1 hour 18 minutes, but my fastest post-injury half marathon has been 1 hour 34 minutes.”
Despite not being religious before his stroke, Paul has since converted to Christianity: “God spared my life for a reason and although I don’t fully understand what that reason is, I’m certain it will become clear in time.
“Church helped me overcome any misconceptions about the reasons about what had happened to me, like whether I was being punished by God for what I went through.
“I have learned to be grateful for what I have, and to live more in the present. I’ve been through some terrible times but I’m entirely convinced that God will support me and bring me through the other side.”
Even before his stroke, Mr Metham had never previously run a marathon distance event. He cites the challenge as the “pinnacle of his recovery”.
Matthew Akpan, 37, from Leeds, is raising money for the National Autistic Society. He holds the Guinness world record for the fastest half marathon and marathon time dressed as a wrestler.
Mr Akpan said: “I am very excited to run next month, I have waited to do the London marathon for a long time. It will be a moment I will never forget.”
He was diagnosed with autism in 2013, but cited the COVID pandemic as his inspiration for running as he lost two family members during the period.
Akpan’s story even drew attention from WWE legend John Cena, who he dressed as when breaking records.
A fun record worth celebrating for it’s substance and message (and maybe it’s style 🩳). Thanks to @GWR for recognizing a young man who is running for a cause and with purpose. #NGU https://t.co/H5AaPflp0y
— John Cena (@JohnCena) October 4, 2022