York woman does Great North Run for Spinal Research

When 60-year-old Ros Williams crosses the line at this weekend’s Great North Run she will be celebrating her brother’s recovery from a life-threatening spinal cord injury.

Last Christmas, Angus Beattie noticed a stiff neck and shoulder. Within days he was rushed to hospital after suffering a serious spinal infection, unable to move or feel anything down one side of his body.

The 59-year-old needed emergency surgery with the possibility he may never walk again. He then spent more than three months in hospital, including nine weeks in a specialist spinal injuries unit in Sheffield.

"It just came out of absolutely nowhere and was such a shock and very scary," said Ros, from Dunnington, York.

"There were no guarantees he would ever walk again or recover the movement and sensation he’d lost.

"But right from the start Angus had great care and was so determined to do all he could to recover. He was incredible and the day he walked out of the unit was so emotional."

Angus has continued his recovery at home in Ipswich with regular physiotherapy for limited hand movement and continued back spasms.

RECOMMENDED READING:

• York-based rail firm increases journeys to major event
• Major event in North Yorkshire raises £50k for charity - by selling cheese
• Mum whose daughter died three years ago set for mammoth challenge in her memory

Ros is running the Great North Run on Sunday with her husband and eldest daughter to raise money for Spinal Research.

She added: "While watching my brother on his journey to recovery, and seeing the bravery and strength of other patients facing life-changing injuries, I’ve been really inspired.

"When you realise how life can change in an instant you and you really value what you have and what can be lost through a spinal cord injury. So, it’s really important to support those working to find new treatments for these injuries."

Chief executive of Spinal Research, Louisa McGinn said: "We’re in touching distance of function restoring treatments and there is real hope that curing paralysis will be the medical breakthrough of the 21st century.

"That’s why we’re so grateful to our incredible supporters, like Ros.

"Together we will help turn brilliant science in the lab into effective treatments for the millions around the world who need them so that suffering a spinal cord injury is no longer a life sentence."

To support Ros, go to her JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/rosamund-williams-1716397868149