Hayling Island man recovering from brain injury will dress up as Thor in upcoming triathlon
Andy has even been given the coveted ‘golden cape’ by triathlon organisers.
A man who is recovering from a brain injury is gearing up to take part in a triathlon - where he will dress up as a superhero.
At the age of 21, Andy Read from Hayling Island was involved in a car accident, the passenger in a vehicle that struck a lamppost. The collision left him with a catastrophic brain injury, as well as a fractured pelvis and multiple facial and skull fractures.
Once he was airlifted to hospital, Andy was given just 24 hours to live - but miraculously pulled through.
When he came round from surgery and intensive care, Andy couldn’t walk, drink, eat or speak independently. Doctors warned his family that his quality of life would be very poor. But against all odds, he has been recovering ever since.
Now 34, Andy can walk with a frame, eat and drink independently and speak digitally through software on his iPad. His attitude of ‘never give up’ - a mantra he also has tattooed on him - manifests itself in him taking part in the Superhero Tri, a triathlon where everyone dresses up as superheroes.
“Superhero Tri has given me the determination to do more exercise and keep physically fit and strong,” Andy said. “Mentally it has fuelled my drive to do better each year.
“I love the atmosphere and it brings me happiness and joy to be among such amazing people.”
Andy, who is still having regular therapy at Hobbs Rehabilitation, will be channelling full Marvel energy by dressing as Thor, complete with a long blond wig. Jenny from his rehab centre will start the team in style by completing the swim section in Dorney Lake. She will hand to Andy and his father, Kevin, for the cycling section. They will then be joined by Andy’s brother, James, for the final 10km run.
Throughout the event, Andy will be wearing the coveted ‘golden cape’, given out by the Superhero Series.
Andy added: “The Superhero Tri makes me feel part of a community that’s willing me on to achieve something. This year I’ll be receiving a Golden Cape award for my achievements.
“I would like to say thank you to Superhero Tri for giving me a place where I can be myself and feel the thrill of having people cheer me on right to the finish line. It’s a truly special day which wouldn’t be possible without the amazing Superhero Tri team and sidekicks.”
The Superhero Tri, powered by Marvel, is on August 15 at Dorney Lake in Berkshire.