A WREXHAM man has been labelled "incredible" after completing the city's 10K event in aid of a charity that changed his life.
Just seven months ago, 70-year-old, Jeffrey Chrimes could not walk the distance of his yard without a risk of falling.
Last Sunday (April 21) he completed Wrexham 10k raising funds for The Rainbow Foundation, the charity which has supported him to regain his strength and improve his mobility as well as having a positive impact on his overall mental health and wellbeing.
The Rainbow Foundation is an active ageing charity that delivers services to improve the health and wellbeing of our local communities. Services include Day Opportunities, Home Care & Support, Rainbow Meals, Community Outreach, Social Prescribing, Community Transport and Volunteering opportunities.
Jeffery first became involved with the charity in October 2023 when he enrolled on their free Active Futures programme, a physical health and peer support programme to combat frailty and MSK conditions promoting strength, balance, and independence in later life.
When Jeffery joined the programme, he was unable to walk long distances and had difficulty bending and lifting things.
On Sunday he completed the race alongside friends and The Rainbow Foundation, completing the race with Active Futures Community Lead Jane Bellis.
Jefferey was cheered over the line by friends Jasmine Hulme, Katryn Levens and David Done who also completed the race on behalf of The Rainbow Foundation, as well as the other Rainbow Runners and supporters.
Jeffrey said: “This was such a great experience, and I was determined to finish. Jane was with me every step of the way and we kept each other going. It was very overwhelming for me as I really wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Jasmine and Jane.”
Jane said: "I am so proud of the progress Jeffrey has made since joining Active Futures, his fitness has really improved. He has kept exercising with us after graduating by moving onto our Fit Futures classes and is now looking at volunteering with us. What an inspiration to others Jeffrey is, I’m so proud to have supported Jeffrey on his journey."
Jeffrey met Wrexham Mayor Andy Williams on the finish line, who said: "The recent Wrexham 10k attracted participants from across the UK, each striving to achieve personal milestones and set new records for the event. Among them, Jeffrey’s journey across the finish line was nothing short of extraordinary.
"While Jeffrey may have been the final runner to complete the race, in my eyes, he emerged as the ultimate victor. Upon congratulating him, I learned of his remarkable journey.
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"His achievement serves as a testament to the power of support, encouragement, and unwavering determination in overcoming obstacles. Jeffrey, I salute you. You are not only an incredible individual but also a beacon of inspiration for others on their own journeys. Well done."
Jeffrey was one of 11 Rainbow Runners who completed the Wrexham 10k on Sunday on behalf of The Rainbow Foundation.
The Rainbow Runners have raised more than £1,000 so far through sponsorship which will be used to ensure that the older people in our communities are able to reach their full potential and lead healthy, fulfilling lives as engaged citizens.
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