Running for Greatness: Ismail Patel

As this year’s AJ Bell Great Manchester Run weekend approaches – we’re shining a spotlight on some of our inspiring participants who are running for more than the medal when they lace up their trainers on the 18th May.

Meet Ismail, an individual who has overcome such physical illness his prognosis from doctors was that he would never walk or talk again, let alone take on a 10k run.

In 2008 Ismail suffered a brain bleed that resulted in a mini-stroke. Just over a year later, in 2009, he fell into a coma at home and was taken into hospital. His family were told to prepare for the worst. Never giving up, his sister fought with doctors and incredibly Ismail woke from the coma two and half weeks later to face months of rehab, in the greatest battle of his life.

A true test of mental strength and a belief his body would rise to physical challenges doctors believed impossible, Ismail slowly began walking with a cane. Still weak on his left side, he persevered and after eight months achieved his goals to return to work and the gym.

Despite tackling the fall out of the trauma his body endured including epilepsy, ulcerative colitis and multiple surgeries, Ismail rose to achieve unprecedented distances. In 2018, a friend from the gym encouraged Ismail to take part in the Dewsbury 10k race. Initially doubtful, he accepted the challenge – and what was meant to be a one-off race turned into a passion.

Now in 2025 Ismail has completed 33 10k races, including the Great Manchester Run in previous years and a half marathon at the Great North Run, raising money for various charities along the way.

Talking of his return to the Great Manchester run this year, continuing his journey of courage, resilience, and hope, Ismail says, ‘The Great Manchester Run is very inclusive – it makes me feel part of something special. There’s no discrimination at all – everyone just cheers you on.’

Be part of the action! Places for the 10K, Half Marathon and Junior & Mini kids events are expected to sell out in advance once again, so act fast to secure your spot on the start line.