An RAF veteran who was left paralysed following a stroke has pledged to walk the final 100 metres of the Worthing 10K to raise money for the charity that supported his rehabilitation.
Ed Sampson, 57, spent six months at Care for Veterans in Worthing after suffering a stroke in December 2023. During his stay, he underwent intensive physiotherapy at the charity’s specialist rehabilitation facilities before returning home in 2024.
Now, alongside his wife Vikki, he will take part in the Worthing 10K on 7 June. Vikki will push him in his wheelchair for most of the course, but Ed plans to get out and walk the final section to the finish line himself.
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The former RAF technician, who served with 75th Signals Unit between 1988 and 1997, said recovering from the stroke and preparing for the event had been “without doubt the toughest challenge” he had ever faced.
He said: “After my stroke I never thought I’d be in the position to do this, there was a lot of doubt in my ability to walk again.
“But Care for Veterans looked after me during my stay and continue to do so as I train for the Worthing 10K. The team are so nice and work with me to help achieve my goals. I wouldn’t be where I am now if it weren’t for their dedication and support.”
Ed continues to attend physiotherapy sessions at the charity as part of his recovery and preparation for the race.
He added: “I was able to walk 50m, then 80m and I’m determined to walk the last 100m of the Worthing 10K.”
His wife Vikki said his determination had been inspiring for family and friends.
She said: “Ed has worked so hard to get to this position and I’m incredibly proud of him. It is testament to his courage and determination, and the superb work of Care for Veterans.”
Belle Fisher, lead physiotherapist at Care for Veterans, said staff had seen “significant” improvements in Ed’s mobility and walking speed.
Care for Veterans, now part of the Royal Star & Garter group following a merger in 2025, provides nursing, rehabilitation, respite and end-of-life care for veterans and their families living with disabilities and neurological conditions.
