Lee Pownall hopes to help not one but two charities close to his heart
04 May 2021
Lee Pownall has always wanted to make a difference and the Paraparaumu-based runner hopes by entering the 2021 Rotorua Marathon he can impact not one but two charities close to his heart.
The 37-year-old dad-of-three works at Stroke Central CEO and hopes to raise awareness of stroke prevention by raising funds on his marathon debut.
Lee will also be committed to raising money for the Whirlwind Men’s Group in Kapiti – a group he personally tapped into after experiencing mental health challenges.
“Since the age of six, I always wanted to run a marathon and being one of the official charities (Stroke Central) I saw it as a great opportunity to take part and give it a go.
“I opted for two charities because I feel there is an opportunity for a collaboration. Stroke and mental health go hand in hand both from a prevention and a recovery point of view, so they are relevant to each other. They crossover and often prevention from one, can help another.”
The Stroke Prevention campaign “Don’t be the One” is focusing on promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through events. Meanwhile, Lee became involved in the Whirlwind Men’s Group three years ago following a breakdown in his marriage.
“It’s a really great group of men of all backgrounds and life experiences and a great example of how talking and listening can really help people,” he explains. “I often felt others were going through far worse situations than me, but it did help me at the time I needed. I recommend it to anybody going through struggles or difficulties to go to a group such as this. There are people who can help and I’ve made friends going to the group.”
Training for his first marathon has helped improve his mental well-being, reducing work stresses and put Lee “in a good zone.”
Aiming for a sub-five-hour time, Lee knows running a marathon will be emotional but is looking forward to the experience and making a positive impact.
“I’m a big believer I was put on this earth for a reason,” he says. “And I feel that if I’ve been through something or have a passion for something then I will follow it and do my best to make a difference for other people.”
