AN ARMY veteran who was injured in Afghanistan will be joined by his wife when the couple take on April’s London Marathon in aid of Blesma, The Limbless Veterans charity.
Andrew Stockton and wife Emma, of Lichfield, will tackle the 26.2-mile challenge to give something back to an organisation which helped them through hard times after the Royal Artillery soldier was wounded.
Having served for more than 20 years, Andrew was on his first tour of Afghanistan in 2006 when he was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade which severed his left arm above the elbow.
Once back in Britain, Andrew joined Blesma and both he and Emma credit the charity for playing an important part in his recovery.
Andrew said: “I have chosen to run the London Marathon to give something back to Blesma as they are the charity that has helped me the most since my injury.
“Emma and I want to raise as much money as possible to make sure that Blesma can continue their fantastic work.”
Andrew has been fitting in training around his busy job as a military insurer, while mum-of-three Emma has set up a running club to encourage people in her local area to be more active and to aid with her own training.
Emma said: “If it wasn’t for Blesma I think Andy would have lost himself. They have helped to give him focus, motivation and confidence, especially in the early days when very little else was in place for injured soldiers.”
The couple are already halfway towards their goal of raising £4,000, with the total including donations from local businesses.
To support Andrew and Emma in their challenge, go to www.justgiving.com/Stocky32/