Maria’s Great South Run Challenge
Racing Welfare beneficiary Maria Doe will be taking on the 10 mile Great South Run this Sunday, 15 months after suffering a serious spinal injury.
Maria, who has worked for leading trainer Sir Michael Stoute for 19 years, was injured last year when the horse she was riding slipped and fell on top of her. She underwent surgery to stabilise her crushed vertebrae and had two metal rods inserted down side of her spine.
After a long period of rehabilitation, Maria was keen to get back into running, which she enjoyed so much before her accident. “I ran the London marathon in 2016 and have completed the Norwich half marathon and plenty of Race for Life events.” As you might expect however, her injuries made it really challenging for her to continue her love of running. “I have always run, but it is has become much less enjoyable due to my discomfort! I have only been able to do limited training because of the rods in my back; I get sore very easily and my muscles get very tight in my back.”
Maria is racing on Sunday to fundraise for Racing Welfare, who supported her through her recovery.
I want to raise money for Racing Welfare because when I broke my back they provided financial support to fund my physiotherapy. They also organised a membership for Newmarket leisure centre to help with my rehabilitation.
As part of her recovery, Maria started doing Pilates and Yoga as well as walking daily to help regain flexibility and stability in her back. Maria returned to work January this year and her recuperation is going well.
Maria we think you are incredible! Anyone who would like to show their support can do so by sponsoring Maria in her challenge at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/maria-doe
Image courtesy of the Newmarket Journal