Crawley woman who went through huge mental health problems is now training for Team GB

Poppy May won the Achievement Award at the Crawley Community Awards 2025. In April 2018, Poppy's life took a devastating turn. Losing all sensation from the waist down and becoming a wheelchair user. The confusion, fear, and heartbreak of those days still linger in her memory, magnified by the helplessness of those around her. Poppy's world fell apart. Depression consumed this young lady for years, leaving her feeling lost and broken. In October 2019, Poppy entered a residential rehabilitation unit for a 12-week treatment plan. What followed was a very dark period. Yet, deep inside her, a spark of hope refused to be extinguished. That spark led to a turning point. <br />In January 2023, Poppy's mental health began to shift, and by May 2023, she completed her first 10k at the Gatwick Run in her day wheelchair. <br />Poppy has now completed 18 races in her wheelchair (10k, half marathons and Full marathons) raising funds for her favourite charities: (Mind, mental health) Outreach, animal charities. <br />Looking back, Poppy's journey is one of heartbreak, resilience, and triumph. It's a testament to the power of community, determination, and the human spirit. <br />Poppy has learned one vital truth: She doesn’t give up.<br />Poppy revealed she tried to take her life 200 times but is now training with Team GB to be a powerlifter.