News

April 20th 2013

Reservist raises money for military charity

A Captain from Nottinghamshire’s Army Reserves 144 Parachute Medical Squadron is raising money for charity to help injured service men and women after completing a tour in Afghanistan.

Greg%20Conway

Greg Conway, aged 30, is hoping to raise more than £1500 for military charity Help for Heroes by completing a series of marathons. He has already completed a 250 km run in the Sahara Desert – so his next challenge will be completing the Great Manchester Marathon.

Greg completed a tour of Afghanistan, as part of Operation Herrick, in 2011 after which he decided to use his physical fitness to benefit others and raise as much money as possible for a charity close to his heart.

Captain Conway said: “Having seen first-hand the amazing work that Help for Heroes does for service men and women who have put their lives on the line – I decided I wanted to lend my support. These individuals, in some cases, have suffered horrific and life changing injuries so the guidance and support that Help for Heroes provides is a huge help to both them and their families.

“It is often the sheer strength of character and the bravery of those injured that puts lives back on track, however, the expertise and assistance provided by the amazing people at Help for Heroes as well as the leading facilities they offer are hugely appreciated by injured personnel and their loved ones.”

Greg completed the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert in April this year. This challenge took place over a six-day period covering nearly 250 km – equivalent to almost six regular marathons. This required intense training to run the distance; carrying all his own kit and equipment whilst battling searing temperatures up to 53 degrees centigrade and frequent sand storms.

The Great Manchester Marathon will be Greg’s final challenge on 28 April 2013.

Greg continued: “So far I have raised approximately £900 but I really want to go that extra distance now and hit my fundraising target of £1500. I’m planning to do the Manchester Marathon wearing the same kit carrying the same equipment on my back, around 30lbs – although I’ll make sure it is all boil washed first!

“I know we live in financially tough times but I would really appreciate it if the people of Nottinghamshire could donate anything they can afford towards my final run to help me raise those vital funds for Help for Heroes.”

"So far I have raised approximately £900"