Young south Essex woman to run half marathon after life-changing accident
Chloe Hooper, now 23, sustained a severe spinal injury when she fell from a tree at a scout camp at just 12 years old.
After initially being taken to a hospital in the area, Chloe was referred to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, as she had fractured her back in four places.
Chloe needed to have life-changing spinal fusion surgery - which involved two rods and eight screws.
However, thanks to the pioneering treatment, she recovered and even regained the ability to walk.
An image of Chloe's X-ray following the life-changing spinal fusion surgery (Image: RNOH)
Now, a decade later, Chloe is lacing up her running shoes and looking for support at the Big Half marathon to give back to the hospital that "transformed her life".
Chloe, who has just finished her Masters degree in physics, said: "Thanks to their revolutionary work and my exceptional surgeon, I have made a full recovery.
"I will forever be grateful for their amazing team and the work that they do.
"They gave me the ability to walk. Without them, I do not know where I would be, so it is difficult to even quantify.
"I am super sporty and active, so it is difficult to imagine where I would be without them.
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"This is why, 10 years later, I want to fundraise for RNOH Charity, so the hospital can continue their incredible work."
Chloe is inviting the south Essex community to support her fundraising efforts by donating to her cause.
To donate, visit https://2025thebighalf.enthuse.com/pf/chloe-hooper
She says every contribution, no matter the size, will help the hospital continue its vital work for patients facing life-changing injuries and give others the same second chance she was given.
The Big Half is on September 7.
RNOH Charity is dedicated to supporting the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, one of the UK's leading centres for neuro-musculoskeletal conditions.
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