John Lake

So many people have been inspired by John Lake's example. In 2002,at the age of 24, having just graduated with a first from Oxford, John was diagnosed with a brain tumour. After a year of surgery, chemo and radiotherapy he attempted to get back on track but suffered severe depression. A friend introduced him to running and, though he had never run before, entered him for the London Marathon. He completed that in 2004 and attempted a tri-athlon a couple of years later. He has raised over £12,000 for Brain Research Trust and has gone on to work with people with mental health problems. He has come to terms with an altered life to that which he anticipated, but he always listens and helps others who are having problems coming to terms with problems. He epitomises the spirit of overcoming personal problems to inspire and encourage others to carry on despite adversity and problems.