Mum calls it a miracle
Evan ran in the 2015 SMH Half Marathon, raising funds for NeuRA’s research. This year, he’s supporting NeuRA again through a fundraising initiative…
“It was neither divine intervention nor lady luck that saved my life. It was a combination of knowledge, skill and the training of a special group of people who dedicate their lives in an endless pursuit to prevent, cure and treat brain injuries and disorders.”
In 1999 after experiencing a major rupture in the left side of my brain, I experienced severe stroke-like symptoms. Moments after I arrived at the hospital, I stopped breathing and was placed on a ventilator. I was pretty much a goner.
Fast forward to 17th May 2015. I was alive, fit, healthy and happy with the only evidence of my aneurysm being partial paralysis of my right foot, knee and hip and some pretty epic scars on my head. It was a brisk morning and I was preparing to take part in the SMH Half Marathon with the ‘NeuRA Runners’ team to help raise not only awareness but also funds for NeuRA.
That was a good day!
Evan running in the SMH Half Marathon
There were definitely points during the run when I thought I couldn’t keep running. I had to think back to all the people who helped me with my recovery. Those were the thoughts that got me beyond pain and past the finish line.
Mum calls it a miracle; others will say I was lucky to survive.
But I know better. It was neither divine intervention nor lady luck that saved my life. It was a combination of knowledge, skill and the training of a special group of people who dedicate their lives in an endless pursuit to prevent, cure and treat brain injuries and disorders.
Unfortunately they can’t do it all on their own and need our help. You don’t have to be a scientist to give them a hand.
Dust off those running shoes and challenge yourself for NeuRA. With over 3 million Australians affected by brain injuries and disorders every year, chances are that you will be helping someone you love.
Sign up to a run in your city today!
~ Evan
NeuRA Running Events in 2016
11 & 12 April – Australian Running Festival Canberra
7 May – Tough Mudder Brisbane
17 May – Half Marathon Sydney
24 May – Run for Reason Perth
14 June – City2South Brisbane
4 & 5 July – Gold Coast Marathon
26 July – Run Melbourne
9 August – City2Surf Sydney
6 September – Canberra Fun Run
20 September – Blackmore’s Running Festival Sydney
22 October – Tough Mudder Sydney
19 November – Tough Mudder Melbourne
Call Steph Grove at the NeuRA Foundation on 1300 888 019 to sign up today