For Nicky, crossing the start line of the Great Welsh Marathon will be far more than just a race, it will be the celebration of years of strength, perseverance and courage.
At just 16 years old, Nicky broke her back in an accident that changed her life. What followed was a long and painful recovery that continues to this day.
Nicky recalled those moments of recovery as she shares with us the ups and downs of it all…
“I had to learn to walk again, and even going up one step was a struggle, I had to cling on to rails for dear life, terrified I’d fall back down. I faced pain, weakness and, in some ways worse than that, people’s comments about how I walked. I was ridiculed throughout my recovery, but I was just grateful to be able to walk at all.”
Despite moments of doubt and days where the pain felt unbearable, Nicky never gave up. She pushed through with determination, setting small goals and celebrating each victory. After a few corrective surgeries on her feet, she built a career as a veterinary nurse and gradually began to rebuild her strength through exercise.
“Once I started at the gym, I realised that muscle pain from working out was different from the pain of my injury. It actually helped my back. Strengthening my core was essential, and that gave me confidence to try new things.”
Running came later, and with it, a new sense of freedom….
“I found a Couch to 5K training app and started getting out regularly. The fresh air helped me so much mentally. But I stopped for a while after being ridiculed for my running style, it really knocked my confidence. Then during Covid, I started again, and this year I completed my first marathon distance through the London Virtual Marathon.”
Now a regular park runner and proud member of a running club, Nicky has found not only fitness but friendship and belonging.
“Being part of a running club has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve made so many amazing friends through running.”
Taking part in the Great Welsh Marathon marks an incredible milestone of her first official marathon event after completing a virtual one solo.
“To be able to run at all feels amazing. To run a marathon after what I’ve been through fills me with pride. It means so much to finally take part in an event surrounded by others who love the sport.”
Her message to anyone facing their own challenges is simple but powerful:
“Don’t listen to the haters. They’re envious of your courage and perseverance. Never give up! If you train well and look after yourself, you can achieve your goals, whatever they are. Don’t worry about speed; this journey is about you. You’re still lapping everyone sitting on the sofa.”
Nicky’s story is the perfect example of determination and resiliation to overcome not just physical barriers but those that sadly exist through a culture of negativity and verbal abuse. Despite all of this, she has achieved so much more than most would believe. Giving us all a reminder that every step forward, no matter how small, builds strength, and that human spirit can overcome even the toughest of challenges!
If Nicky’s story has inspired you to take up running or share your own story, get in touch with us to help spread positivity around running in our community!
To find out hoe you can take on your own challenge with us next March CLICK HERE.