On April 23rd, 2019, model and television personality Joshua Patterson set off on his journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End by wheelchair.
This was in an attempt to set a new male World Record time by completing the trip in just 19 days – the equivalent of roughly two marathons each day (38 in total).
In 2017, Josh’s best friend Ben Tansley was involved in a motorcycle accident after visiting Josh when his daughter India was firstborn. It left him paralysed from the waist down.
During his recovery Ben asked Josh to complete the Berlin Marathon with him in a wheelchair to understand both the physical and mental challenges that he (and many others) face.
Josh agreed, eager to embark on the marathon with his best friend, and the pair completed it in September 2018, crossing the finish line together despite a number of challenges along the way.
Since completing the Berlin Marathon, Josh has continued to raise awareness and support those who are in wheelchairs and hopes that by completing his latest new challenge he can raise money for the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA), RMA-The Royal Marines Charity’ and Heads Together, charities that are all close to his heart.
Joshua commented “Completing the Berlin Marathon with Ben was tough but a truly humbling experience.
Whilst Ben isn’t with me throughout this challenge, he’ll be cheering me on during the route and helping me to raise funds for these incredible causes.
Although I am not disabled myself, Ben’s accident has given me a greater understanding of the daily challenges that he faces as well as the wider disabled/wheelchair community.
After completing the marathon in September 2018, I wanted to continue to raise awareness and support for both Ben and the SIA.’