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Islander Brad Smith will be entering this year’s London Marathon to raise funds for Headway and for treatment for his friend, Connor Bayes.
“Previously I have only run around a football pitch. I have never undertaken a physical challenge to this extent, but it’s a great chance to push myself and a worthy way of raising money for a local charity and a close friend,” said Brad.
Brad said he asked to run the marathon on behalf of Headway after his father, who is involved with the charity, was not able to take up the slot.
Pictured: Brad Smith said that training for the London Marathon was "a lot harder than I thought it would be" but that he "can't wait" for the event.
“Headway had a place secured in the marathon and asked my dad if he would want to take part because he’s really into fitness. He wasn’t able to, so I asked if I could take the slot to raise money for Headway and Connor’s treatment," said Brad.
Brad recently took the opportunity to attend a session at Headway. “I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was so impressed with the work the charity does. I was quite nervous about going along to a session but everyone was so friendly and welcoming.
“I personally know friends and family who have benefitted from Headway’s services and it has given me a great understanding of the amazing work they do for the local community. It is a great feeling to be supporting this charity.”
Pictured: Brad (right) visited Connor in June while Connor was undergoing rehabilitation treatment in Salisbury.
Brad continued: “A brain injury can happen to anyone at any time, from a blow to the head in an accident, an assault, a sports injury or something as simple as slipping and banging your head. You could also have a stroke or tumour or be recovering from an infection such as meningitis or encephalitis.
“A brain injury can affect people in many ways, including epilepsy, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, speech problems, serious memory loss or restricted mobility. Life is changed forever.”
Brad said that he wanted to also raise funds for Connor Bayes’ rehabilitation treatments, after an accident left him paralysed from the chest down.
Pictured: Brad and Connor enjoyed holidays together with friends before Connor's accident, including three skiing/snowboarding trips.
“I met Connor through mutual friends around six years ago and he became one of my closest mates. Before his accident, I would spend time with Connor at least three or four times a week. We led very similar lifestyles, playing for Rovers together, socialising and undertaking projects together because we are both carpenters,” said Mr Smith.
“When Connor had his accident, it was a massive shock. It was very difficult, particularly because I had meant to be out with Connor that evening but had changed my plans. Connor is a well-driven and strong individual and I have great belief that he will progress beyond expectations. It’s a great feeling to be raising money for such a well-known and liked friend of mine.”
Pictured: Brad and Connor played football together on a six-a-side team with other close friends.
Brad has set a fundraising target of £6,000. “I’ll be splitting the money raised equally between Headway and Connor’s treatment so, that way, everyone’s a winner."
The London Marathon will be taking place on 2 October. Brad will be taking part in Guernsey's half-marathon next month in preparation.
You can donate to Brad's fundraising efforts HERE
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