Doug Healey Project

“You’ll never walk again!” were the words Doug was told, after a workplace accident crushed Doug under a pile of steel. Doug had saved a colleagues life by pushing him out of the way but in return had his own back broken in 3 places.

Over the next 2 years Doug fought back for his freedom against conventional medicine, and against well meaning people who told him to give up and just get used to it.

Now, still with virtually no feeling in his legs, he is walking, running, and training others for marathons. Doug uses his journey as a story of inspiration and hope, taking the lessons he learned to inspire, challenge and change peoples lives. The message is simple - there is always hope.

Doug has spent his new lease on life giving back. He runs numerous community training sessions and speaks regularly to companies and groups imparting hope and a new sense of inspiration.

He runs a bootcamp at 5am most mornings - for free

He runs a Sunday morning formation run training - for free

He speaks and trains at corporate events

All these events he puts on to build and better the lives of the people - and it’s not just the team that can go - anyone from the community can attend and join in.

In December of 2014 Doug put out a challenge for 25 everyday people who wanted to challenge themselves and change their lives. The goal - the New York Marathon in 2016. He would provide all the training, all the coaching and mentoring, and together over 22 months they would become ‘Marathon Ready’ completing the New York Marathon together.

The journey is over half way for this group and the transformation of minds and lives has been remarkable. Changes never happen in isolation and as a result these peoples families, friends and communities all benefit from seeing the possible and overcoming limitations. Of the group, none have run in an event before and now many of the participants now have their own tale of inspiration based on this life changing event. Their next significant challenge is getting to New York to complete the dream and proudly represent New Zealand in the parade of nations.

This fundraiser is to assist the team with incidental travel costs and uniforms. Will you help be part of the journey?