Oliver runs Lincoln Half Marathon to inspire others living with muscle conditions like his

This year’s Lincoln Half Marathon is more than just a challenge to Oliver, he hopes that his story can inspire others to achieve their goals, especially those living with a muscle condition like his.

“I am running the Lincoln Half Marathon to prove to myself that I can do it. Having muscular dystrophy does not mean my life should be shaped by limits. I do not want to focus on what I cannot do. I want to focus on what I can do.”

Oliver signed up to the City of Lincoln 10K as a personal challenge, after suffering an Achilles injury which took six months to heal but managed to cross the finish line in under an hour.

“That race became a marker of recovery for me,” but “instead of feeling finished, I felt motivated to push further. The very next day, I signed up for the half marathon.”

For Oliver, the training plays an important part with regards to his condition and gives him a meaningful goal to train for. Staying fit can also help slow down the effects of his condition, by keeping his body moving and active.

“Staying fit is not just about reaching the finish line, it is about maintaining my independence and health for as long as I can.”

The Lincoln Half Marathon will be an important milestone for Oliver, both for himself and for inspiring others.

“This race is my way of taking control of my own story. I know it will be tough, and there will be moments of doubt, but I am determined to cross that finish line and prove to myself that I am capable.”