On Sunday 22nd March, Luke Wood will be taking on the Eastleigh 10k in aid of Smile4Wessex.

Luke was living what he describes as 'a normal life' when he became unwell in 2010 and diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Movement, strength, and independence disappeared almost overnight and within a week he was paralysed.

After initially being hospitalised in Sheffield, Luke spent several months as an inpatient at the Wessex Neurological Centre, including three months in neuro ICU/HDU.

Luke is no stranger to fundraising, having taken on a fundraiser in 2012 for Smil4Rich . Since that time Luke has focused on trying to rebuild his life and manage his residual symptoms, which was more challenging than he anticipated, but with the help of the NHS and specialist rehabilitation he is back training and keen to give something back.

Guillain-Barre syndrome is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks the nerves. It can cause weakness, numbness or paralysis.

We'd like to thank Luke for supporting Smile4Wessex and the Wessex Neurological Centre and wish him the best of luck with his challenge. 

To support Luke, please visit his fundraising page HERE