Chesterfield man to attempt world record challenge for Ashgate Hospice
He first started running after being diagnosed with PTSD
A Chesterfield man, who began running after being diagnosed with PTSD, is now preparing to undertake a world record breaking challenge for the Ashgate Hospice.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Joan Pons Laplana worked as a nurse on the NHS frontline. Following his redeployment, he began to struggle with his mental health.
He is now preparing to take on the London Marathon in October dressed as a pint of beer, in the hope of becoming the fastest pint to run a marathon.
He says: “Running broke the vicious circles of my sleepless nights, my nightmares, because to be honest, I was so tired that my body just went to sleep”
“I started then being more refreshed in the morning and then slowly my mood swings stopped. And then I thought: I want to carry on, but I need something to keep me on track”
“I decided to do something for a charity because that gave me a commitment.”
He says he decided to raise money for Ashgate Hospice, who provide support for patients and families in North Derbyshire, after learning that they were having difficulties raising money during the pandemic.
On the 2nd of October, Joan will attempt to complete the London Marathon in under four hours to beat the world record.