George Howard to run length of Hadrian’s Wall eight months after being in a coma
Just eight months after experiencing the biggest challenge of his life - falling into a coma and spending a month in hospital after being hit by a taxi - George Howard is once again testing his physical limits by running 84 miles along Hadrian’s Wall in a single day: September 3, 2011, together with two friends Flora Spencer.
Last October, fresh off a 4,600-kilometer, 40-day bike expedition with Flora from Wiltshire to Istanbul, the athletic 23-year-old’s life was turned upside down when he was struck by a taxi travelling 40mph. George sustained brain injuries from the accident and fell into a coma, ultimately spending a month in hospital, including several days in intensive care.
Now recovered and working as a gym trainer, the Dorset-raised George is viewing the daunting trek across 84 grueling miles of hilly terrain - the equivalent of three marathons - in just 24 hours as a test of his physical endurance and a much-needed return to the active lifestyle he enjoyed prior to his devastating accident.
The run will also help raise funds for Headway, a charity offering support to individuals with brain injuries. George, who struggled with memory loss and weakened reading and writing comprehension skills as a result of brain injuries sustained during his accident, will be donating any funds raised to support Headway’s missions.
“Headway’s research into brain injuries helped me get back on my feet and recover relatively quickly,” George says. “I am now looking to raise money for people who haven’t been as fortunate in bouncing back.”
George’s incredible tale of perseverance has drawn the attention of acclaimed marathon runner (recently named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People) Dean Karnazes, who called his trek “inspirational.”
What’s more, Sportfix is supporting the team with massage therapy, while UK Gear is supplying the trainers and Playmore supplying the clothing and will be making a video of the run.
“We are delighted to support this epic trek” Playmore, the Hong Kong-based active apparel ompany says.
For more details about George’s Hadrian Wall run on September 3, visit www.hittingthewall.biz . Fundraising details can be found at www.justgiving.com/romanrun.
