From a therapeutic point of view BHT takes a keen interest in the Brighton Marathon; helping shape, prepare and ease runners through the training process with a variety of therapies such as sports massage, sports therapy, deep tissue, nutrition and hypnotherapy. As well as preparing the body for the gruelling 26 miles, runners must also take time to prepare their minds, so that mentally when they hit that proverbial wall, they can climb up over it or just smash through the damn thing!
Each year we enjoy ourselves at the marathon, cheering on runners and offering massages for all those aching muscles and swollen calves. However, this year we are even more excited to be down there, as not only are we cheering on the brave runners but we will be cheering on Emily and Andy Squires as they run on behalf of Meningitis Now for their little boy Thomas. Thomas battled with and survived Meningitis this time last year.
Their Story so far…
This time last year Emily and Andy Squires sat silently at a window in The Royal Alexandra Hospital watching hundreds of eager people running the Brighton Marathon. Laying next to them, in a hospital bed, was their 8 month old son Thomas who was battling a rare and aggressive form of bacterial meningitis and, moreover, fighting for his life.
As they watched the blur of coloured bibs run by, the two parents made a promise there and then to each other and their son. Whatever the outcome, they too would run the marathon, to raise money for Meningitis Now, the charity that had given them so much support and guidance in their darkest time.
With a lot of specialist care from doctors and a lot of love from his family and friends, Thomas somehow managed to pull through. Sadly he was left profoundly deaf. Although thankful that Thomas did not lose any limbs the two have now embarked on a new journey discovering the world with a deaf child. This is where Meningitis Now has provided them with a wealth of support, help and advice. Day by day they have managed to slowly piece back together their lives and look forward to an exciting future with their son. If you want to hear more about their inspiring story click here for an ITV exclusive interview.
In February’s newsletter we wrote about the benefits of ‘paying it forward’ and by practicing what we preached, BHT began ‘paying it forward’ by donating £2 towards Emily and Andy’s Marathon fund each time a booking was made during the month. We are happy to say we have raised £56 and have added this to their pot, which has nearly reached £4000. If their story has touched you like it did us, then it’s not too late to get involved and donate to this brave couple, for a fantastic and life-saving charity.
Emily and Andy, we will be there to cheer you and all the other brave runners across the finishing line. So good luck and may the wind be behind you! For all you runners out there, for pre or post marathon soothing, check out our Awesome April Massage Offer and take advantage of it!