Martyn Smith (63) of Fleet, Hampshire, a governor for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, is on a mission to give back to the institution that saved his life. He aims to complete 52 marathons (one medley a week) which also equates to 2.5 million steps and swim 250 km between 1st January and 31st December 2025 to raise £25,000 for Brighterway, the NHS charity supporting Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare.
This week, Martyn kicked off his vigorous training regime supported by the lifeguards and management team of Everyone Active in Fleet, Hampshire.
Married with three adult children and two grandchildren in his life, this endeavour is especially poignant and meaningful for the former businessman.
In 2015, Martyn suffered two life-altering strokes, leaving him unable to stand, walk, or even talk. Despite these daunting challenges, he has embarked on an ambitious journey to mark his recovery’s 10th anniversary.
Brightness from Dark Days
Reflecting on his journey, Martyn shares, “I was at my lowest, unable to move, talk, or function. Yet here I am, ten years later, not only walking but setting a goal of completing 52 marathons in 2025 (2.5 million steps and 250 km in the pool). For me, it’s about proving to myself and others that recovery is possible, and that life can go on even after unimaginable setbacks.”
Beyond this initial challenge, Martyn envisages expanding his fundraising efforts to benefit the NHS in the future – he hopes that this may lead to sustainability initiatives that would help the NHS operate more eco-consciously.
Brighterway is proud to champion Martyn’s extraordinary fundraising journey, part of their ongoing mission to enhance NHS services and support both patients and healthcare providers in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Brighterway will serve as Martyn’s charitable partner on this journey, supporting his goals and amplifying his impact on the community.
Follow and support Martyn’s fundraising efforts here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/governor-challenge2025
A Journey of Recovery and Giving Back
For Martyn, this challenge is deeply personal. 10 years ago, he faced a severe health crisis, suffering two strokes that left him unable to walk, talk, or even sit up. He recalls, “I remember hearing ‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen as they operated to put the stent in – a small detail, but those moments stick with you. I thought, ‘If I make it, I have to live differently, and I have to give back.’ ”
With Brighterway’s support, he hopes to mark this milestone in his recovery by giving back to the NHS, the institution he credits with saving his life. “I owe my recovery to the NHS, and Brighterway’s support is allowing me to pay it forward in a meaningful way,” Martyn shares.
Through his fundraising, Martyn wants to provide Brighterway with resources to support crucial initiatives for patient care and well-being across Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare. He envisages these funds contributing to projects that address real, immediate needs of patients and staff – whether through comfort enhancements for patient areas, staff wellness programs, or equipment that improves patient outcomes.
Brighterway: Empowering the NHS and Inspiring Communities
Brighterway has long focused on making a positive impact on NHS services by funding projects that go beyond what standard NHS budgets can cover. By championing Martyn’s journey, Brighterway sees an opportunity to inspire individuals across Hampshire to support their local NHS services. “When we get more people involved, our impact increases,” Martyn says. “One person can only do so much, but a community can make a real difference.”
Brighterway believes that the health and well-being of both patients and staff can be elevated by fostering a sense of community involvement and encouraging people to engage with the NHS in everyday ways.
Martyn’s efforts align seamlessly with Brighterway’s mission of enhancing NHS experiences and creating brighter, more positive hospital environments. His ambitious fundraising goal is not just about the funds – it’s about sparking a movement within the community, a movement that Brighterway wholeheartedly supports.
“Brighterway has given me the support to make this challenge possible,” says Martyn, “and together, we’re working to create something that will positively impact patients and staff long after my challenge is over.”
An Invitation to the Community: Walking Together for a Healthier Future
Starting on 1st January 2025, Martyn will begin his journey with the goal of completing 25 marathons (2.5 million steps and 250 km of swimming). Together with Brighterway, he invites patients, NHS staff, and the entire Hampshire community to join him in monthly walks and swimming events held at NHS and Everyone Active sites. Each event is designed to be inclusive and open to all—patients, carers, families, and staff.
For Martyn, these events represent more than fitness milestones. “I want to give everyone the chance to be part of this journey,” he says. “When patients and staff walk together, or swim alongside each other, it creates a bond and reminds us why we’re doing this—to support each other and the NHS.”
With Brighterway’s support, Martyn is creating an opportunity for everyone to get involved, whether by walking, cheering, or contributing to the £25,000 fundraising goal.
The funds raised will go directly to Brighterway’s initiatives within Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust, providing much-needed resources that enrich patient experiences and support staff well-being. From patient comfort projects to health and wellness resources for NHS staff, Brighterway ensures every donation enhances NHS services in tangible, impactful ways.
Join Martyn and Brighterway in Their Mission
To support Martyn and Brighterway, visit [insert link] where you can track Martyn’s progress, donate, or sign up to participate. With Brighterway’s support, Martyn’s challenge is more than a personal journey; it’s a rallying call for Hampshire and Isle of Wight residents to strengthen their NHS community and ensure a brighter way forward for everyone.
“Even if they just come along to cheer, or encourage their friends to join, that’s part of this journey,” Martyn says. “Every small step matters, and together, we’re making a difference for the NHS, step by step.”
Together, let’s help Martyn and Brighterway make a lasting impact on the NHS—one step, one swim, and one contribution at a time.
Support Martyn’s fundraising efforts by donating via: https://www.justgiving.com/page/governor-challenge2025
