From Mental Health Struggles to Team GB: My Journey to Becoming a Paralympian

This year’s batch of winners were all impressive, yet one particular victor’s tale stood out for overcoming challenges in an incredibly remarkable manner.

Poppy May received the Achievement award for transforming her life.

In April 2018, Poppy’s existence changed dramatically when she lost all feeling below her waist and became reliant on a wheelchair. The memories of those times remain vivid with their mix of bewilderment, terror, and sorrow, intensified by the sense of impotence felt by those close to her. Her universe crumbled then. For many years, depression gripped this young woman, making her feel directionless and shattered.

In October 2019, Poppy checked into a residential rehab facility for a 12-week programme. This phase proved incredibly challenging. Nevertheless, within her, a flicker of optimism persisted. It was this ember that catalysed a significant shift.

In January 2023, Poppy experienced a change in her mental well-being, and by May 2023, she finished her inaugural 10k race at the Gatwick Run using her daily wheelchair.

Poppy has now finished 18 races in her wheelchair (ranging from 10ks to full marathons), all aimed at fundraising for her favoured charities which include Mind for mental health support, Outreach, as well as organisations helping animals.

Reflecting on it now, Poppy’s path has been marked by sorrow, strength, and victory. This serves as an affirmation of how community support, perseverance, and the indomitable nature of humanity can prevail.

Poppy has grasped one crucial fact: She never gives up.

However, that is only half of the tale. Following the ceremony where she received the accolade, she engaged in conversation with host Duff Eynon regarding her challenges and future plans. She mentioned, “Post my disability, I went through severe mental health issues.”

I attempted to end my life roughly 200 times, with numerous near misses. There were instances where I actually died but was resuscitated.

I believe after spending so much time continuously being detained and frequently moving between psychiatric facilities, I was eager to begin truly living my life instead of just barely getting by.

When queried about her upcoming plans, Poppy replied: "I upload video content related to fitness. A few weeks back, I received an invitation from a coach at Team GB for the Paralympics, so now, I have begun training with them for para-powerlifting as part of Team GB."

The Crawley Community Awards was marking its 10th anniversary. ^th Year, to view all the winners, please visit .co.uk .