Staffordshire Man Who Suffered Brain Injury As A Child Defying Odds To Take Part In Great North Run

A Staffordshire man who suffered a brain injury as a child is defying the odds as he starts training for the Great North Run.

Robert Bate, from Burntwood, Lichfield, lives with features of cerebral palsy, issues with controlling his limbs and muscles, sight problems, and difficulties with speaking and swallowing.

Robert’s injuries were as a result of him being assaulted as a child, with him expected not to survive at the time.

Following the incident Robert’s family instructed specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell who secured him a settlement to help him access the lifelong specialist support, rehabilitation and therapies he needs. The funds are managed by Irwin Mitchell’s Court of Protection Team to ensure they last for Robert’s lifetime.

After years of being confined to a wheelchair, his mobility has greatly improved. With the help of a running chair Robert takes part in park runs and has received a slot in this year’s Great North Run, which takes place in September.

Robert, who is training for the half marathon, is now using Action for Brain Injury Week to reveal his determination to “live life to the full.”

Expert Opinion

“Robert has been through a traumatic ordeal and the injuries he suffered as a child will continue to affect him for the rest of his life.

“Through our work we come across many people living with brain injuries. Despite the ongoing challenges he faces as a result of his disabilities, Robert has shown such courage and determination to build a life for himself and we’re privileged to be able to support him with that.

“Robert has gone from strength to strength with his mobility, and it’s incredibly inspiring to hear he’s now taking part in the Great North Run. He has really defied the odds and we wish him the best of luck as he continues to live life to the full.” Caitlin Kelly, Court of Protection Lawyer

Robert currently lives in an adapted property with his carers, and mum Jenny, 55, lives in an annexe to the property.  He benefits from input from a speech and language therapist, a physiotherapist and a dietician.

He’s also studying performing arts at Stafford College, supported by an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP).

Robert said: “Growing up with a brain injury hasn’t been easy as I became aware of the differences between me and other children especially when I had to use a wheelchair.  However, I made the decision not to dwell on my disabilities and focus on what I can do to make things better for myself.

“Over the years, I have worked hard to get to where I am, and even though I face challenges every day, I’m determined not to be defined by my condition.

“Getting into college was a huge achievement for me, and I try to live as independently as possible, which has been helped greatly by my running chair.

“I’m now training for my run later in the year, which I’m really excited about.

“I hope that by sharing my story I can inspire others to realise there’s still life after a brain injury and I want to live mine to the full.  I really believe you can do anything when you put your mind to it.”

Find out more on the Great North Run and donate to Robert’s Just Giving page at Robert's Giving Page (cancerresearchuk.org)

Action for Brain Injury Week runs from 15-21 May and is supported by the charity Headway. This year’s campaign is entitled Take a Second and focuses on how it can take just a few seconds for someone’s life to be changed by a brain injury. More information is available at www.headway.org.uk

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling court of protection cases