Ibrox to Anfield … and back again!
Rangers fan and long-time friend and supporter of the Rangers Charity Foundation, David Smith, is running his own ‘550 challenge’ from Ibrox to Anfield and back as a tribute to the Rangers team and manager after winning their 55th title.
David, 55, left Glasgow on 2nd June for the challenge of a lifetime running 22 marathons in 22 days, or over 550 miles, after suffering a stroke in December last year and losing his ability to read and write due to ‘aphasia’.
He is raising money for the Rangers Charity Foundation and the Stroke Association and is due to arrive back at Ibrox on 23 June at 2.30pm.
David said: “I had an Ischemic stroke on December 8 and after 24 hours of touch and go I survived – I knew I was going to be okay, but I couldn’t actually speak to tell the people around me.
“Three days later, I was up and walking about, running up and down the stairs. I was told I was supposed to be in for a month, but I was able to leave after 15 days.
“I believe my fitness pulled me through, I knew I had to have a plan to beat this stroke, I wanted to run it off.
“I’ve been lucky, but not everyone is the same so I’m doing this run in support of the Stroke Association, who do wonderful work for those less fortunate than myself.
“I’m also running for my usual charity, the Rangers Charity Foundation, who do a lot of work in the local community and help a number of different charities, including Unicef.
“Going to Liverpool and back is in tribute to Steven Gerrard who delivered the 55th league title and got me through my darkest days.”
Rangers Charity Foundation Fundraising Executive, David Henson, said: “David has been a supporter of the Foundation for many years, but this is the most extreme challenge he has taken on.
“We have been cheering David on every step of the way and are extremely grateful for the support which will allow us to continue our community and charity work. His positivity and resilience truly is inspirational.”
Angela MacLeod, Communications Manager at Stroke Association Scotland, commented: “Aphasia affects a third of stroke survivors. It can affect a person’s ability to speak, write and read.
“It can be devastating, affecting relationships, employment and accessing basic things in society. To think David only had his stroke in December is incredible. I’m sure his grit and determination, demonstrated through his taking part in this event, is leading to his amazing success.”
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