Phil Packer completed the Virgin London Marathon on 26 April 2010 in 26 hours. Well done Phil!
Last year Phil, who was not expected to walk again after suffering serious spinal injuries on duty in Iraq, completed the marathon in two weeks.
For each hour of the race, he was supported by a different inspirational young person representing one of 26 chosen charities.
Mile 21 for RNIB
At 6.15am on Monday 26 April, Phil was joined for one hour at the mile 21 by Bilal Hussein. Bilal is registered blind and is a student from RNIB College Loughborough.
"Anyone is capable of following their dreams"
Bilal is 21. Like Phil, he has not allowed his disability to stand in the way of ambition. With the help of RNIB College Loughborough he has been able to continue his academic studies, fuelling his ambition to teach, whilst learning vital independent life skills. Before the race, Bilal said: "I am really excited about marathon day...Phil is an inspiring person who can really show people that anyone is capable of following their dreams."
Phil says: "During my journey, I have met so many young people who have overcome what could be seen as enormous challenges and they never give up. Bilal's support is crucial to both my understanding of disability and of the work of RNIB."
All money raised will go to RNIB College Loughborough, where they hope to purchase new gym equipment for the students, and perhaps help train a new generation of paralympians!
How to get involved
If you would like to pledge your support for Phil and Bilal, it's not too late. Please visit their Virgin Money Giving page.
Take part in a Team RNIB event
Inspired by Bilal and Phil and looking to challenge yourself? Check out our events and challenges page for ideas. From 5k runs to marathons, parachuting to dog sledding, there's something for you. What are you waiting for? Take the first step today.