I’ve never let disability get in my way – Dan describes his Bupa 10k motivation

On Sunday 27^th May, Dan Wren together with Helen Boshier, took to the streets of London for the Bupa London 10k – raising funds to help United Response in its work supporting those with disabilities.

Find out more about how Dan and Helen fared on the day. 

Dan resides at a United Response supported living service for people with learning disabilities in Hampton Wick, south-westLondon. Helen is a United Response service manager at a supported living service for people with learning disabilities in northSomerset. She supported Dan throughout the run.

Dan has a mild learning disability and only 10% of his sight, but this hasn’t hampered his active participation in a wide-range of sporting and physical activities. As well as skydiving, kayaking and snow mobile racing, Dan has also won trophies for 6-hour slalom ski competitions!

Dan and Helen with their medals after the race

Before the run, we met the inspirational man himself to ask why he wanted to take part in the Bupa London 10k and raise funds for United Response. 

Hi Dan – how regularly do you run?

I am a regular runner at two local running clubs, I attend most Sundays and also go for long walks locally. I’ve also run the Gatwick half-marathon and the Great North Run.

Why did you want to run the Bupa London 10,000?

I thought achieving a competitive race time over a 10k distance would be a fun challenge and help me to realise one of my goals. Plus, during the run I got to seeLondonlandmarks likeSt Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben!

Why do you want to raise funds for United Response?

One of the reasons is because I want to improve accessibility for people who are partially-sighted or who have physical disabilities – it makes such a difference and really enhances quality of life. United Response already does this by providing accessible gardens at some services, and I would love to see more gardens transformed in this way.

Some people with disabilities might be concerned about taking part in a sporting event – what would you say to encourage them to take part?

It is important to be enthusiastic and positive about your abilities. I get a real buzz out of taking part in sport and I would like to see more people with disabilities taking part in challenge events and enjoying themselves. I think people should get active this summer especially because the Olympics and Paralympics will be here! Before entering a challenge event, you should build up a support network. In my own experience, support staff can help with this and I was so happy to run with Helen. 

Dan’s mantras 

1. Do not put yourself down, no matter what level of mobility you have.

2. Stay positive – if you put your mind to it, you can do it.

2. Encourage others – if you are running and you see someone struggling, offer your support.

4. After finishing a race, reward yourself – I like to go to the pub and enjoy a beer or a nice glass of wine!

If you have been inspired by Dan and Helen and would like to run the 2013 Bupa 10,000 for United Response then please email mark.schueler@unitedresponse.org.uk to register your interest.

Alternatively, we recently opened applications for our secure places in the 2013 Virgin London Marathon – apply now and be part of United Response’s very special 40^th anniversary marathon team.

Mark Schueler, fundraising officer