Please help athlete Neil after life threatening accident

Please help Neil, a dedicated coach & athlete who is critically ill following a devastating bike accident while preparing for Ironman Nice 2024.

Neil lives and breathes running and triathlons, it is a part of his identity, his vocation , his passion. I adore this about him, It brought us together and has cemented our relationship over 9 incredible years. To celebrate turning the big 50, he decided to take on the ultimate challenge in endurance sports at IRONMAN Nice 2024. This was a life long dream and he had dedicated the last year to training. He was so excited and ready for it.

In Nice on the morning of Saturday 15th June with a little burst of pride I waved goodbye to Neil as he headed off to do a short test ride on his bike ahead of the race on Sunday. I knew what this meant to him, how he had put everything out there in the pursuit of this dream. He inspires me every single day with his approach to life. Less than 5 minutes later our lives changed forever when he was hit by a speeding motorbike. The devastating impact of this collision caused multiple, complex life threatening injuries.

He was rushed to hospital in Nice and over the next 17 hours underwent 3 emergency surgeries to save his life. Those hours felt like an eternity. The medical team told us that the only reason he was still alive was because he was so fit, strong and healthy. I cannot describe the agony of trying to comprehend the seriousness of his condition.

At the time of writing this Neil remains critical in a medically induced coma. I am heartbroken. His family are heartbroken. He is fighting for his life with a determination like no other. This is the biggest challenge he has ever faced.

Neil’s injuries are extensive and life-changing and the road ahead will be a tough one. We are completely devastated by what has happened and are determined to give Neil the very best possible chance of overcoming this tragedy. We are facing significant costs for his ongoing care, rehabilitation and the logistics of being able to be by his side for as long as he needs it.

I am reaching out to anyone who feels they may be able to make a donation to help Neil fight this challenge. Even the smallest donation really will make a huge difference.

Neil puts his heart & soul into everything in life. He is an incredible partner and a loving dad to his 13 year old son who is his absolute world. I am in awe of the love & pride they have for each other.

Neil has touched the lives of so many people in the most inspirational and positive way. Through the sporting holidays he organised and running & triathlon group he founded he has helped so many people achieve things they never knew were possible. He loves every moment of helping others believe in themselves and realise their full potential. He certainly made me feel that way - meeting Neil and falling in love with him changed my entire life.

There are challenging times ahead but Neil is a determined fighter. Please, if you are able to support him on this fight, I will be forever grateful. Much love & thanks, Rachel x