Tommy Rowlingson, paralyzed from the waist down due to acute transverse myelitis at age 19, demonstrated incredible resilience in his rehabilitation journey. Despite bleak expectations from doctors, Tommy persevered through intense rehab for six months, eventually regaining the ability to walk short distances. He continued his studies at the University of Sussex, using his experience to drive his ambitious goal of running the London Marathon in 2025, initially planning to do it in a wheelchair but recovering faster than anticipated. Daily challenges still accompany his recovery, yet hope remains a powerful motivator.
The early days of my injury, when progress was sparse and functionality was low, were dark days, but despite having been told I might never walk again, I never gave up hope.
I've always had intentions of doing the marathon, but I think my injury has just given me the push to actually do it.
Managing my bladder and bowels alongside exercise and diet has been challenging. Muscle recovery has been challenging too.
Originally, the plan was to do it in a chair, but I recovered much faster than I expected, so that went from rolling to running.
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