The MD of Nottinghamshire based automotive manufacturing company Interflex has raised over £1500 for the Alzheimer’s Society by walking a marathon in memory of his late mother.
And what makes the achievement even more notable is the fact that MD Jim Griffin was given a ‘negligible’ chance of surviving a viral illness just four years ago. a well known figure in the automotive insulation industry, Jim has a long career in the sector in a range of senior roles.
Since his illness, 56 year old Jim has fought his way back to health, taking on the MD role at automotive parts manufacturer Interflex.
The fundraising Trek26 walking marathon, run by the Alzheimer’s Society was held in London in June and included many significant landmarks en route such as St Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben.
Jim walked the route with his son-in-law Greg, a keen cyclist who has completed several cycle tours across Europe. The pair set off at 6.45 in the morning and Jim admits that the physical nature of the challenge was a tough one for him after recuperating from his illness. However, he was delighted to finish the course in eight hours – including a couple of pub-based pit stops along the way.
“It was a pretty warm day and so, although we wanted to finish the course in a reasonable time, we couldn’t resist dropping into a couple of nice pubs for a pint and a cool down under the air con,” Jim commented.
”I have to admit that the last three miles were pretty tough for some reason, but we finished it. We also walked further than 26.2 miles because we and some others walkers missed a marker and went the wrong way - so we actually walked 28.1 miles! It was particularly amazing to finish the distance after I had been so ill for a couple of years.”
Spurred on by his success, Jim is aiming to walk even further next year. “I recovered pretty quickly after the walk so I’m contemplating doing a 50 miler next year to really stretch myself!” he said.
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and there are over half a million people in the UK living with the condition. While there is currently no cure, medication and targeted support can help sufferers and their families live more rewarding and comfortable lives.
Jim is MD of Interflex who are based in Langar in Nottinghamshire. The company manufacture a range NVH and sealing solutions for vehicles, including door seals, interior trim, under carpet and boot seals. they employ around 40 staff at the site.
Although Jim has already surpassed his original fundraising target, he is hoping to make the £2000 marker. To donate via Jim’s Just Giving page visit www.justgiving.com/team/Trek26London202126Miles-SaundersGriffin.
How Interflex can help you
For more information about Interflex’s products and services, including NVH and sealing solutions for vehicles including door seals, interior trim, under carpet and boot seals, please call us on 01949 861 494 or email sales@interflex2000.com.
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