Two remarkable stories of human resilience have emerged this week, offering powerful inspiration for anyone seeking to overcome personal challenges. Both involve individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries yet are now pursuing extraordinary physical feats to raise funds and awareness for vital causes.
Andy Reid's Marathon Mission for 2026
Andy Reid, a former soldier from St Helens who became a triple amputee, has announced an ambitious goal: to run the TCS London Marathon in 2026. Reid lost both legs and an arm in 2009 after stepping on an improvised explosive device (IED) while on patrol in Afghanistan's Helmand Province.
Now approaching his 50th birthday, Reid views the marathon as a monumental personal challenge. He estimates the gruelling 26.2-mile course will take him approximately 10 to 11 hours to complete. His participation is about far more than just crossing the finish line.
"I'm turning 50 this year, and I wanted a challenge!" Reid said. "I hope that as many people as possible can support me in raising funds and awareness for both charities."
His primary aim is to demonstrate the immense potential of injured and disabled veterans. He hopes his effort will show "what can be achieved by someone like me, a triple amputee, with the right mindset and support network around you." The funds he raises will support his own Standing Tall Foundation, which focuses on mental health, addiction, and welfare, and the Army Benevolent Fund, where he serves as an ambassador.
Hari Budha Magar's Historic Seven Summits Triumph
Meanwhile, from the frozen expanse of Antarctica comes news of another ground-breaking achievement. Hari Budha Magar, a former Gurkha soldier and past Pride of Britain winner, has just made history by becoming the first double above-knee amputee to summit the highest peak on every continent.
His final conquest was Mount Vinson in Antarctica, standing at 4,892 metres. To reach the top, Hari endured temperatures as low as -25 degrees Celsius, vicious winds, treacherous slopes, and freezing ice fields that pushed his mind, body, and prosthetic legs to their absolute limits.
"The climb was very tough," Hari admitted. "I was literally crawling up on all fours, battling my way up the mountain."
His seven-summit journey began in 2018 but faced an immediate hurdle. When he first applied to climb Mount Everest, Nepali authorities denied his request due to a ban on climbers with disabilities. Hari successfully challenged and overturned this ruling in the high court. In 2022, almost 13 years after losing his legs, he finally stood atop the world's highest peak.
"My message to the world is anything is possible with enough determination," he stated. "Yes, you might need to adapt your approach, get help, or think differently, but you can do it!"
Legacies of Inspiration and Support
Both men are using their incredible challenges as platforms for charitable giving. Through his 'Conquering Dreams - 7 Summits' challenge, Hari Budha Magar is raising money for a coalition of veterans' charities, including:
- The Gurkha Welfare Trust
- Blesma
- Team Forces
- On Course Foundation
- Pilgrim Bandits
Their stories transcend sport and adventure. They are powerful testaments to the strength of the human spirit and serve as a call to action, encouraging public support for the charities that aid veterans and individuals facing profound physical and mental health challenges. They prove that with resilience and support, boundaries are meant to be redefined.
