Brain injury survivor in epic mountain run
RAISING THOUSANDS: Paul Spence during his gruelling challenge
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
A man who overcame an horrific brain injury to launch a charity supporting other victims has completed his most gruelling physical challenge so far.
Paul Spence was told by doctors he was lucky to be alive after suffering a brain haemorrhage when he was the victim of an unprovoked attack in a Hull bar back on Easter Sunday, 2012.
Despite being left with life-changing injuries from the one-punch assault, west Hull dad Paul went on to launch the P.A.U.L For Brain Recovery charity to help others suffering from brain conditions. P.A.U.L stands for ‘positivity, awareness, understanding and love’.
The charity has subsequently raised tens of thousands of pounds to help sufferers and their loved ones and, crucially, helped increase awareness of brain conditions.
Paul himself has undertaken numerous physical challenges to raise money for the charity since he launched it, and has now completed his hardest to date.
INNER STRENGTH: Paul on the run, with friends Lee Thompson and Rich McKeating
He has conquered the notorious Black Beacon Mountain Race Challenge in Wales – one of the most difficult ultramarathons in the world.
Paul completed the 104-mile route, scaling 25,798ft, in 36 hours. He set off at 6pm on Friday, September 20, and crossed the finish line at 6am on Sunday, September 22.
He was joined by friends and fellow fundraisers Lee Thompson and Rich McKeating, before they were both forced to retire due to injury around the 50-mile mark.
Former electrical engineer Paul said it was his most difficult charity challenge so far but, as with his own personal recovery from injury, he took strength from others when he needed to.
He told The Hull Story: “It was, without doubt, the hardest challenge I’ve undertaken. I had to dig really deep and find inner strength I didn’t know I had. I’ve learned a lot about myself, both physically and mentally.
CHALLENGE COMPLETED: Paul at the finish line
“Lee and Rich were absolutely brilliant, but unfortunately they had to stop when they were both injured. It was really hard to then run alone, so I found others to run with.
“As with brain injury recovery, it was about reaching out for support when needed and not letting ego get in the way.
“Recovery is a long process, and sometimes you don’t think you can do it, but I hope that I can provide some inspiration and motivation for others who are going through it.”
Paul’s latest fundraiser comes as the charity continues to go from strength to strength.
It has recently adopted the annual Humber Bridge Sportive family cycling event. Established in 2014 by cycling enthusiasts Ian Nicholls and Andy Cawley, this year the event attracted over 400 riders and raised more than £15,000 for eight local charities.
It will now continue into its twelfth year in 2025, under the same name and format.
Paul said: “The Humber Bridge Sportive is an amazing event, and without Ian and Andy, along with all the helpers, volunteers, cyclists and sponsors, it wouldn’t be the success it is today.
“Having had the pleasure of working closely with Ian and Andy for the past three years, I understand the significant levels of planning, logistics and hard work that go into organising an event of this scale.
“This amazing event has changed the lives of so many in our local community. Although Ian and Andy are handing over the reins, they’ve chosen to remain involved in an advisory capacity to help us continue their outstanding work.
“To honour Ian and Andy’s legacy, the Humber Bridge Sportive will continue to support other local charities alongside ours.”
P.A.U.L For Brain Injury is also hosting a Cirque Du Soleil charity ball at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull on Saturday, October 5.
Paul has currently raised more than £2,200 from his latest challenge. To sponsor him, and support victims of brain conditions and their loved ones, visit paulforbrainrecovery.enthuse.com/cf/the-black-beacon-mountain-race-challenge-100-mile-ultra