A MAN who underwent surgery to remove a brain tumour and feared he wouldn’t walk again is undertaking a superhuman challenge.

Paul Osborne, 65, is walking 26 miles in 26 days and while that might not sound like much to most for him, it really is a marathon.

Paul’s lengthy battle with serious brain injury was brought about seven years ago. After he was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent major surgery to remove the growth.

“If I hadn’t undergone the operation, I wouldn’t be here now,” he said.

Paul, who is from Mistley, struggles with his speech and gets help to make himself understood by a carer at the Sue Ryder Neurological Care Centre, The Chantry, in Ipswich.

The operation may have saved his life, but it sent him back to square one.

Slowly, thanks to the physiotherapy, care and long-term support offered at the centre, Paul has regained the ability to live his life on his own terms.

And he has learned to walk again.

The life-long Ipswich Town fan said: “I would say there has been a 90 per cent improvement since the operation.

“I couldn’t walk too much at all. I currently do physiotherapy twice a week.

“I used to sit in a wheelchair at Portman Road when I went to the football, now I have my own chair at the ground.

“I’ve had a lot of support from all the staff – they do a good job.”

Paul’s condition improves year on year, a testament to his fight and strength.

Prior to his illness, Paul lived an active lifestyle, working on the railways for more than 34 years.

He also played football for Mistley and was a member of Mistley and Manningtree Bowls Club.

“It has been in my nature to keep trying, it is all I can do,” he said.

Paul has taken on an incredible effort in support of the centre which has helped him to walk again.

The fighter is halfway through his bid to walk 26 miles in 26 days around the grounds of the centre, using only walking sticks as his aid.

It is the second time Paul has thoroughly tested his fitness, having completed a 5k sponsored walk in 2019.

He said he is willing to push himself to the limit for the centre’s staff.

He said: “I really wanted to give something back and show my appreciation for the great care I’ve received, especially this year during lockdown.

“I’d be so delighted if I could raise as much as possible for the centre.”

To support Paul’s effort, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-osborne23.