IT SEEMS extraordinary that a life can be changed so completely in an instant.
While some illnesses and afflictions can be detected and even caught early on, paralysis comes with no warning.
It’s a sobering thought that any of us going about our lives could be only a car shunt or slip on a wet floor away from such a devastating change.
In working with Spinal Research during my marathon build-up, the true extent of the size of their challenge has become apparent.
Developing treatments to reverse the effects of paralysis is no quick fix.
While the charity is funding pioneering research and has helped make revolutionary progress in the field, the spinal cord remains the body’s most complex tissue to repair.
As a result, you’d be hard pressed to find a charity involved with such groundbreaking research and treatments.
The cord cannot grow unaided but tests have shown there could be ways to generate re-growth of the spinal column.
Regenerating just 4cm of spinal cord could potentially help a paralysis victim breathe unaided or regain use of their hands.
Overcoming established paralysis is a hell of a mountain to climb but the goal being inched towards.
Ultimately the charity aims to reverse paralysis so it is no longer a permanent effect of spinal injury.
Spinal Research stand on the brink of treatments that would transform the lives of victims.
In comparison, running 26 miles suddenly seems like making a cup of tea.
To help support Spinal Research’s work, visit my sponsorship website at www.justgiving.com/marathonmorty .
Any Echo readers able to sponsor me will be entered into a draw to win a meal for two at The Print Room on Richmond Hill.
Two further lucky sponsors will win either a family pass to the Bournemouth Oceanarium or a free takeaway from one of Bournemouth’s best curry houses, Sajniz on Christchurch Road.