Running for a cause

My name is Lini Laike, I’m 20 and was diagnosed with GBS in May this year (2021).

Prior to that I was working full time living in Waikato, riding racehorses, and living a really active life.

I spent several weeks between Palmerston North Hospital and star four rehab ward in Levin being treated and beginning my recovery.

During that time I spent a few days in ICU to assist with respiratory issues. In rehab I had physiotherapy nearly every day where I learnt to walk and balance again, and continued as an outpatient once a week.

I am now living back in Horowhenua close to my family and have just returned to work.

My goal for this year was to complete the Queenstown Full Marathon this November, however obviously those plans had to change. Throughout my hospital period a big thing that got me through was that goal. I didn’t have a great understanding of Guillian Barre Syndrome and how serious it is or how much of an impact it would make on my life.

I have recovered really well and have altered my goal to the Queenstown half marathon which was postponed until March 19th 2022 due to COVID.

While I train I am fundraising for awareness for the GBS support group nz and the Mental Health Foundation New Zealand because although physically it was a super challenging time, it gave me a real insight into struggle with mental health issues.