A member of Bond It staff is set to take on his first ever marathon, overcoming his own disabilities to support the Different Strokes charity.
Jeremy Helm, who works in the manufacturer’s warehouse administration office, is to set off from the start line on 4 October, aiming to complete the 26.2-mile Chester Marathon.
Mr Helm is running the marathon in support of Different Strokes. This charity helps younger stroke survivors to optimise their recovery by offering rehabilitative services, information and advice. It is run by stroke survivors for stroke survivors.
He is backing this particular charity because it focuses on a cause close to his own and his family's heart. At the age of just four, Mr Helm suffered a haemorrhagic stroke with life-changing consequences.
After many months in hospital and a gruelling programme of physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and speech therapy, he has regained both the ability to walk and the ability to speak.
However, at the age of 31, he is still affected by many of the physical and mental disabilities commonly associated with stroke survivors. This includes right-sided hemiplegia, epilepsy, depression, concentration/memory loss, and fatigue.
Mr Helm said: "Running has long been a major passion in my life and I have previously represented Yorkshire as a disabled athlete. I'm also a longstanding member of Holmfirth Harriers Athletics Club.
"This is the first time I've run a marathon, however. I'm looking forward to the race with a mix of anticipation and excitement. It's going to be great to be able raise not only funds for Different Strokes but also awareness of the issues and effects of head injuries."
Mr Helm has already received sponsorship from the team at Bond It, but, in order to raise as much money as possible for his chosen charity, continues to seek additional support.
Donations can be made by visiting www.justgiving.com
