On September 13th, Samuel Place will be undertaking the 100km Ultramarathon along the River Thames in aid of Smile4Wessex. 

In August 2024, Samuel's wife Ellie suffered an intracerebral haemorrhage and was rushed to the Neuro ICU at the Wessex Neurological Centre, where she was underwent a life saving craniotomy and was placed in a medically induced coma. Ellie woke up 3 days later and spent a further 2 weeks at the centre before continuing her rehabilitation in Salisbury and at Western Community Hospital. 

"The care provided at The Wessex Neurological Centre was faultless both in patient care but also the support they give to loved ones. We still live with the aftermath of Ellie’s stroke today as we find a new normal but it is only possible due to the incredible work the surgeons, doctors and nurses who provided life saving treatment and for that we’ll be forever grateful."

Over 3,000 adventurers will take on the Thames Path Challenge in September. England’s greatest river provides a fantastic backdrop for an unforgettable challenge. Starting at Putney Bridge the 100km route heads upstream to Henley along the famous Towpath, through Richmond, Hampton Court, Runnymede and Windsor, with some wonderful scenery to a riverside finish line.

To support Samuel, please visit his fundraising page HERE