Neville's Story: A Life of Challenge, Charity and Positivity
Neville's Story: From Marathons to New Challenges
When Neville Maggs became Chairman of the PTA at his children's school, he never imagined it would spark a lifelong passion for running and fundraising.
Wanting to raise money for the school, Neville organised a sponsored challenge in which supporters had to guess how long it would take him to travel from the school gates in Leicester to Mount Snowdon, climb the mountain and return home. He later ran a marathon in Stratford-upon-Avon with one of the teachers, raising an incredible £10,000.
Over the years, Neville has completed an astonishing 27 marathons, 56 half marathons and five Tough Guy challenges, taking him all over the world. One race that stands out in his memory was the Honolulu Marathon, where the heat and humidity proved particularly challenging. Starting at 5am, Neville completed the event and even lost eight pounds in weight during the race.
His dedication to charity work, including projects in Ghana, led to one of his proudest moments when he was selected to carry the Olympic Torch through the streets of Leicester.
Today, at 85 years old, Neville is living with a brain tumour and continues to face new challenges with the same determination that saw him complete some of the world's toughest events.
Following paralysis down his right side, Neville began neurological physiotherapy with NeuroAbility. Through hard work and perseverance, he has made significant progress.
"As I was paralysed all down my right side, it's literally step by step, but my fingers are working again now. I can now carry a full glass of water in my right hand after hand therapy."
When asked what advice he would give to others living with neurological conditions, Neville's answer was simple:
"Try anything. Keep pushing yourself forwards."
He believes that setting challenges, no matter how big or small, helps build confidence and gives a real sense of accomplishment.
And his advice to anyone facing health challenges?
"Positivity goes a long way."
Neville's story is a reminder that age, diagnosis or disability do not define a person. With determination, support and a positive mindset, there is always something worth striving for.
