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Inclusive was delighted to support Bernie Henderson, a leading national figure in assistive technology, in running the London Marathon - in a Rupert the Bear suit!
Bernie is very important in assistive technology training both nationally and particularly in Wales and the South West and has been a long term friend (and customer) of the founders of Inclusive Technology, Martin Littler, Trish Hornsey and Roger Bates. We are delighted to support him and Rupert in their hot and heroic attempt to raise money for muscular dystrophy, and to congratulate them on finishing a marathon which they started already injured!
Bernie completed the first London Marathon in 1981 when his first child, Louise, was just nine months old. As he reached the grand old age of 50, and as this year's run was the 25th London Marathon, he thought it may be a good idea to try it again, but this time with Louise.
They
decided to raise money for Muscular Dystrophy, a cause close to Bernie's heart
through the work he does running the Assistive Technology Service in Swansea.
Three days after agreeing to raise money on their behalf, they heard that
someone very precious to them both had been diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular
Dystrophy at the age of four. It made them even more determined to raise as
much as possible for the charity that supports those families in need and funds
valuable research. They set a target of £5000, but with the generous
support from family and friends managed to surpass £7000.
Unfortunately, after four months of hard training, Bernie suffered a serious calf injury that meant he wouldn't be able to compete in the way he had intended. However, he was still determined to get round, no matter how long it took.
The Muscular Dystrophy Campaign wanted somebody to wear their Rupert mascot outfit to help generate much needed publicity and motivate all the other competitors running on their behalf. Bernie duly volunteered and turned up at Greenwich wearing the full costume. We'll let him take up the story.
"It
was an absolutely fabulous day with amazing support from the crowd and other
competitors. The 'Rupert the Bear' outfit was a great success with everyone -
the name is still ringing in my ears from the people screaming it out and
singing the song. By the end of the race my arms were as tired as my legs from
all the waving I did on route. I had my photograph taken every inch of the way
by official photographers, the paparazzi and anyone and everyone with a camera.
I also found myself the centre of attention for kisses and hugs from tiny tots,
parents, paramedics and policewomen!
The costume was really well made, but it is difficult to see where you are going through the white gauze in between the eyes. This means you have to concentrate or you'll bump into other runners, kerbs, bollards etc. I was particular pleased to have stayed out of trouble for about 14 miles until I met my match. I hadn't thought of 'sleeping policemen'! The first one nearly caused me to go sprawling, but I kept my balance and gingerly completed the 100 yard section without any other mishap.
Louise completed the course in a very respectable time of 4 hours 27 minutes, well within her capabilities, and enjoyed the experience so much she is planning to run the New York Marathon in November.
Me? I'd intended to hang up my running shoes after this marathon, but I'm sorely tempted to enter the London Marathon next year and let Rupert experience the marvellous atmosphere just one more time. I'll keep you posted."