Site manager and former ex-soldier to run London Marathon for disabled children's charity
A Gloucestershire construction site manager who suffered with PTSD following military service is taking on a new challenge by running this year's London Marathon on Sunday 3rd October to raise money for a national disabled children's charity. Trevor Hopkins, who is an assistant site manager for Barratt David Wilson Homes at Merlin Gate in Newent, Gloucestershire decided to support Whizz-Kidz, which works to transform the lives of disabled children, because he had worked directly with servicemen who have lost limbs or been paralysed and has seen what they can achieve with the right support and equipment. To boost his fundraising efforts, his employer, Barratt Developments, has pledged to match funds up to a contribution of £1,000. Trevor joined the housebuilder straight out of the army 20 months ago, having been in the military over 22 years. Barratt actively encourages ex-Armed Forces personnel to join the company, valuing the skills, drive and leadership skills that they can bring. The company provides training and development to help recruits transition into everyday life and build a new career.
I know from previous experience that physical training has helped with my mental state as well so it would be a win win. Helping these kids is my perfect tonic." Having not run for over a year and carrying injuries which have required back surgery, Trevor suffered a setback to his training programme recently when his whole family got ill with Covid. He adds: "This is not the best preparation and just another obstacle to make this marathon even more challenging. But regardless of how hard it gets, I will drag myself over the finish line! "The charity itself is amazing. Unfortunately, the NHS can't supply all the kit needed for these young wheelchair users which impacts on their own goals. Their disabilities shouldn't be a barrier to what they can achieve. I'm hoping with the support of Barratt, we can help as many of these kids as possible and make a real difference to their lives." Harlan Bevis, construction director for Barratt David Wilson Homes South West said:
"The pandemic has brought challenges for most people, but it has been particularly difficult for those transitioning into a new career from the Armed Forces as the social restrictions have made it tough to build new support networks. Trevor's commitment and dedication to his training are hugely impressive and we're really pleased to be able to help him towards his fundraising target. It's important to us to make a positive He says: "My end goal is to try and raise contribution to the communities we build in as much money as possible for Whizz-Kidz and Whizz-Kids does amazing work to help whilst at the same time trying to help my own disabled children become confident and physical and mental well-being along the way. independent young adults." Trevor is hoping that the training and determination needed to run the London Marathon will also help his physical and mental well-being. He suffered from PTSD in 2012 following service in Afghanistan and Iraq, and his recent transition out of military service during the pandemic restrictions cut him off from his traditional support networks.
"My darkest moments are when I am idle so when I saw Barratts were after volunteers for the marathon, I jumped at the chance as I see it as an opportunity to get some routine back into my life, outside of work. 28
Anyone who wants to donate to Trevor's marathon for Whizz-Kidz can do so on his fundraising page https://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/trevor-hopkins
