A paralysed man from Norfolk takes on walking challenge for local hospital
The world record holder is taking on a challenge a little closer to home.
Last updated 4th Feb 2021
Simon Kindleysides, who's 35 and from Blofield, has set himself a goal to walk four miles, or 8 thousand steps, a day in February.
It's all to try and raise some money for the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital charity.
He's no stranger to tough challenges though having previously become the first paralysed man to walk the London Marathon.
Simon says the batteries in his exoskeleton suit, which enables him to walk, last long enough to complete four miles before they need recharging.
He said: "I was sitting at home doing nothing and I just wanted to do something to support the NHS and in particular, the teams at the NNUH, and I will be walking various four-mile routes through Norwich during the month.
"This lockdown is driving everyone crazy, mentally and physically so I wanted to push myself again."
During wet weather Simon will be calling on members of his bubble to accompany him with an umbrella.
Simon was a dancer and a restaurant manager but in 2013 was diagnosed with a brain tumour and functional neurological disorder that left him paralysed from the waist down.
He is hoping to raise more than £2,000 for the N&N Hospitals Charity during his February Challenge which will involve a total of 224,000 steps across the month.
Louise Cook, Head of Fundraising, said: "This is such an incredible challenge and we are delighted that Simon has chosen to support his local hospital charity.
"We look forward to hearing Simon's updates which and we hope everyone will support him."
Simon says he chose the charity after the hospital saved his life on a number of occasions.