Biomedical engineering student aims to become oldest amputee to conquer London Marathon

A 61-year old who lost his leg after being hit by a drink driver is aiming to become the oldest amputee to complete the London Marathon.

Chris Arthey, from Godalming in Surrey, is taking on the challenge for international disability charity Leonard Cheshire, who runs a vital care service in his home town.

The retired engineer and his wife both lost their left legs on their motorcycling adventure after moving to Texas in 2007.

The couple had moved to America for work, but also for a new outdoors-focused lifestyle upon becoming “empty-nesters” when their son left home for university.

Their lives changed forever when they were struck by a vehicle being driven by a man who was more than three times over the legal limit.

However, Chris has recently returned to university and last year he climbed Kilimanjaro, ran two half marathons and competed in an Olympic distance London Triathlon.

“As a para-athlete, it’s important to support organisations like Leonard Cheshire who do such good work for disabled people,” Chris says.

“Since our return to the UK a year ago we have been helping to get the local community more involved in Leonard Cheshire’s Hydon Hill service in Godalming, Surrey, which supports adults with a range of disabilities live full lives. We organised the annual ‘Hydon Hobble’ race to raise money for the service last summer and will be doing so again this year.”

“Eight years on from the accident, our lives are full. We want everyone else to be supported to live rich and rewarding lives too.”

The Surrey runner will be among 38,000 participants taking on the famous race on April 23.

Chris is looking to raise £2,000 and sponsors can support him through his JustGiving page: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ChrisArthey

Leonard Cheshire Disability

Leonard Cheshire Disability is the UK’s largest voluntary sector provider of services for disabled people. Our services include high-quality care and community support together with innovative projects supporting disabled people into education, employment and entrepreneurship. Worldwide, our global alliance of Cheshire partners supports disabled people into education and employment, and works in more than 50 countries. Visit: leonardcheshire.org or follow us on twitter: @leonardcheshire

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