Marathon runner

Phil Woods ran the marathon in aid of HemiHelp. Here he explains how he got involved and why he ran for us.

How did you become involved in HemiHelp?

My son George was diagnosed in December 2002 with cerebral palsy, but it was George's physio who described the condition as hemiplegia. It wasn't until 6 months later that we were informed by a paediatrician that HemiHelp existed. My wife Annette became a member soon after.

We have found the newsletters a great way of learning about other children and young people with hemiplegia, especially older children as they develop into young adults. It helps us to get an insight into George's future.

Why did you run for HemiHelp in the London Marathon?

My ambition has always been to run the marathon before I reached 40 (I'm 39, now!)

I thought this would be an ideal opportunity for me to spread the word and raise awareness about HemiHelp and hemiplegia. With each sponsor form I sent out, I included a letter explaining how George has hemiplegia, detailing its effects and described the services that HemiHelp provides.

Over the past 18 months or so, I have felt particularly strongly about making people aware of George's disability because friends, acquaintances and even family are not fully aware of George's condition. They only think he has a 'bad leg' due to the splint that he wears and because George does not appear to be disabled.

It was amazing to get feedback from people who had read the letter that I'd send out. For instance, a support teacher at George's school responded: "I never knew about hemiplegia and how George is affected." That teacher has given George one-to-one lessons for the past 18 months!

I have been totally amazed at the response of people and having run the marathon, I have never felt so strongly about giving George the appropriate support and recognition - if I don't, who will?

Why do you continue to support HemiHelp?

HemiHelp genuinely supports the affected child and the child's parents. The proposed new service of an experienced home visitor meeting newly diagnosed hemiplegia families is imperative, tuo support the people through what can be a very difficult and emotional time.

Fancy running the London Marathon in 2009? Find out how to register - or try one of the other running events coming up this year...