A dad who had to relearn to walk after brain surgery has completed a series of epic challenges to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research.
Marcus Elwell underwent emergency surgery in May 2021 to remove a low-grade haemangioblastoma which left him needing to use a wheelchair.
But Marcus learned how to walk again and earlier this month, on Sunday 6th November, he ran a half marathon in less than two-and-a-half hours.
It was the last of Marcus’ three big challenges, which began on Saturday 15th October after he competed in Hyrox Birmingham; taking on eight physical activities within the fastest time, putting his mind and body to the test. Two weeks later he ascended more than 3,408 metres, travelling a combined distance of around 338 miles to complete the national three peaks within 24 hours.
Marcus, pictured centre with his friends David Sidley and Paul Witham, said: “The half marathon run was the hardest part of my challenge and was as much a mental battle as it was physical, especially after the last few weeks. Whenever I wanted to stop I reminded myself how lucky I am to be breathing and to have a body which allows me to move. If I can, I must.”
So far, he has raised more than £5,000 for Brain Tumour Research and is well on his way to reaching his goal of raising enough to sponsor two days of research at one of our Centres of Excellence.
He added: “My diagnosis has spurred me on to live life to the fullest and I take nothing for granted. I get the strength from my children. I want to show them that despite everything, whatever happens to you, you can work through it and if you believe it, you can do anything.”
To help Marcus reach his target, please visit his fundraising page here.