bbc.com
Veteran completes 85-mile challenge, defying disability
British Army veteran Mike Ryan, who suffered over 140 leg fractures, completed an 85-mile hand-crank equivalent of the Isle of Man Parish Walk at the NSC in six hours and fifteen minutes, raising £650 for Bridge the Gap charity to demonstrate his resilience and inspire others with PTSD to seek help.
- How did Mr. Ryan's military service and subsequent PTSD contribute to his decision to undertake this challenge?
- Ryan's challenge connects to broader themes of resilience and overcoming adversity. His participation, stemming from PTSD and a referral from mental health services, highlights the positive role physical activity can play in recovery. The significant fundraising demonstrates the wider community support available for veterans dealing with long-term health issues.
- What immediate impact did Mike Ryan's 85-mile hand-crank challenge have on perceptions of disability and veteran support?
- Mike Ryan, a British Army veteran, completed an 85-mile (137km) hand-crank machine challenge at the National Sports Centre (NSC) in just over six hours, raising £650 for charity. His feat, equivalent to the Isle of Man Parish Walk, was undertaken to defy limitations imposed by injuries sustained during his service, which left him with broken legs in over 140 places. This achievement directly counters perceptions of disability.
- What long-term implications could Ryan's achievement have on the design of inclusive sporting events and support services for veterans with PTSD?
- Ryan's accomplishment may inspire other veterans with PTSD to seek help and challenge self-perceptions of limitations. His fundraising showcases the potential of community-based initiatives in supporting veterans' mental and physical wellbeing, potentially influencing future programs aimed at similar support. The event's adaption to accommodate his disability sets a precedent for inclusive sporting events.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely positive and focuses on Mr. Ryan's resilience and achievement. The headline could be slightly more neutral, but the overall narrative emphasizes his perseverance and inspirational message.
Sustainable Development Goals
Mike Ryan's challenge highlights the capabilities of people with disabilities, combating stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. His statement, "It is easy for people to look at people with a disability and think they are 50% of the next person... give me an option to be judged on a level playing field and I won't come last," directly addresses the issue of unequal opportunities and perceptions based on disability. His fundraising for Bridge the Gap further supports this SDG by helping young people with long-term health conditions.