FBC Leeds clinic steps in to back charity challenge – ‘100 marathons in 100 weeks’

Our Leeds based clinic has volunteered its expertise to help an ex- serviceman to achieve his ambitious challenge of running100 marathons in 100 consecutive weeks, with sponsorship donations going to the Help for Heroes charity.

Having already completed 15 gruelling marathons for the challenge, Freedom Back Clinics has come forward to support Simon Buckden for the remainder of the demanding schedule, as he runs 26 miles every week from now until January 2013.

Sports massage therapist, Jim Mason, will be helping Simon, a sufferer of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), throughout the challenge by administering free weekly treatment at the city centre clinic to prevent injury, help relax aching muscles and keep his body in optimum condition.

After serving in the army for 12 years Simon suffered from flashbacks and severe depression and was diagnosed with PTSD in 2005. Since then her has gone on to raise funds for large national and mental health charities, this latest challenge being his most difficult to date.

To demonstrate that the serious condition needn't suppress ambitions, Simon Buckden will need both mental and physical strength and determination; therefore ensuring he is in peak condition is vital.

"Because PTSD is a psychological illness, and because service people are often seen as very strong people, it is difficult for many to understand. This said I decided I wanted to embark upon a big challenge to inspire other sufferers and raise money for a charity relevant to the cause," he said.

Going on to comment about the treatment being provided by our specialist back, neck and sports injury clinic he said,

"I am hugely grateful for Freedom's support. This challenge is pushing my body further than ever before and the treatment is certainly making a huge difference - I'm not sure I could have completed this safely without Jim's help."

Help for Heroes is a national charity which raises money to support members of the Armed Forces who have been wounded in the service of their country.

Anyone interested in making a donation or requiring further information on the events can visit www.bmycharity.com/100marathons, email simon@raceto100.co.uk