A year ago my very close friend Ricky Martin couldn’t walk, today he completed a gruelling Cross-country run around Leicester’s picturesque Bradgate Park.

Ricky begins the final uphill section of his charity run

To really understand and appreciate what Ricky has been through here is a description in his own words:

Four years ago I had an accident. While working out in the gym the weight machine I was using broke and the heavy metal plates hit me on both sides of the head simultaneously. I sustained a serious brain injury that was compounded by being prescribed a toxic dose of vitamin B6 by my Doctor. I ended up in a wheel chair, barely able to speak, my memory and concentration were limited and I lost many stones in weight. I was forced to rely on friends and family for everything.

Before My accident I was confident, assertive and driven. I had a successful Carpentry business, I boxed as an amateur and was also a part time Personal trainer. I regularly worked seven days a week, had a large circle of friends and a busy social life. I was raised in one of the tougher parts of Leicester and had spent years fighting to overcome my background and reach my goals. I thought that my life was on track but the accident derailed everything.

Nearly there! Ricky Martin reaches the top of ‘Old John’ hill

I would sit for hours every day in a darkened room unable to move around. When I looked in the mirror I didn’t recognize myself. When I look back now, I find it hard to believe that I had slipped that far.

Ricky is not exaggerating, I used to visit him often and it was hard to see that such a strong guy had become broken, both physically and mentally. Ricky’s story of recovery and overcoming injury is epic. In his own words. . .

The toxic effects of the B6 were diagnosed and I began to make progress. I started a simple exercise routine at home and focused on talking more, and improving my slurred and stuttering speech. One night I had a dream about a place in Thailand called ‘Tao Gardens’. When I woke up I searched for it on the internet and discovered that it was a real place that specialized in healing and therapy. I was told that I was in no state to travel abroad, but I overcame many obstacles and literally followed my dream, finally arriving there in September 2011.

A helping hand from good friend Dom as the rough terrain takes it toll

At Tao Gardens I had a broad range of therapies and treatments. Through a combination of yoga, tai chi, hydrotherapy, saunas and massage my health began to improve. I met many inspirational people from all over the world and together we helped and guided one another to move forward. For the first time in years I was able to make conversation, enjoy meals and get around on my own feet without the help of others. I began to visualize the future that I wanted and pictured myself walking on a beach with a Wife and children.

That future is now looking possible and I am certain that with RIcky’s amazing mental strength he can finally complete the final steps of his recovery and concentrate on his new goals and his wish to help and inspire others.

Success! Ricky and his team celebrate at the top of the hill

If you are interested in following his recovery then he is on twitter as @ricky2martin

Also here is the link to his Justgiving charity page where you can still donate to his chosen charity – Headway in Leicester, who helped steer him through the darkest times.