Meet David Wilkinson, a Chelmsford local, who's about to tackle his first marathon at the ripe age of 50. Not only is this a significant milestone in itself, but David's journey to this point has been a rollercoaster ride of challenges and triumphs.
David's love for running started 14 years ago, inspired by his wife, Tara, a passionate runner herself. He began participating in half marathons across London and Essex, but his running journey took a sudden halt in 2015. David was selected to run the prestigious London Marathon, but during his training, he was diagnosed with Post Viral Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
“The prognosis was grim. I was told I might never be able to train or run again,” David recalls. The news was a blow, but David's focus shifted to recovery, knowing it could take years or might not happen at all.
For five long years, David battled severe fatigue. However, as the pandemic struck, he noticed his energy levels stabilising. Encouraged, he started light training, and by April this year, he had completed his first half marathon since his illness at the South Woodham Salt Marsh Half Marathon.
David is now gearing up for his first-ever marathon event, the Chelmsford Marathon, on Sunday, October 13. The Chelmsford Marathon and Half Marathon, which draws over 1,000 runners annually, starts and finishes in the city’s Central Park.
The event raises crucial funds for Havens Hospices, an Essex-based charity providing specialist care for children and young people with incurable conditions. David hopes to contribute to this noble cause by raising sponsorship.
David’s story is one of resilience and determination. He's not just running a race; he's completing a personal journey that started nearly a decade ago. And what is he most looking forward to? “The finish line and the atmosphere at the start line," he says with a smile.
Join David and others in this year’s Chelmsford Marathon and Half Marathon. Register at Havens Hospices Chelmsford Marathon. To support David's cause, you can donate on his JustGiving page.
Image credit: InYourArea
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