Ben Watson - From Guillain Barre Syndrome to Paralympic Gold - An Incredible Journey

Ben Watson MBE is a full time Para athlete, double paralympic champion and Ambassador for Inflammatory Neuropathies UK. 

 Diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome aged 14.  Almost overnight Ben went from being incredibly active to being confined to a hospital bed. After a recovery that took many months, he was left with permanent disabilities affecting his lower limbs and arms. However undeterred, he returned to normal life and continued to stay active, taking up cycle racing as he could no longer run easily. 

In 2016 Ben was out riding when he was approached by a member of the British Paralympic team who wondered if he was interested in undertaking some testing. Highly competitive, he jumped at the chance and soon found himself a member of Team GB.  

 5 years later Ben was on the start line at the Tokyo Paralympics.  Hoping for a medal, Ben achieved this and far more, taking home two golds in the C1-C3 cycling road race and time trial events. 

 Still competing,  Ben raced at the Paris Paralympics last year and after spending time with the Making the Most of Now team on the Tour de MMN in June is now gearing up for the World Championships later this year. He hopes LA 2028 will be his final paralympic swansong.

 In this conversation, we touch on Ben's journey from initial symptoms through diagnosis  treatment and recovery all the way to the lessons he has learned from racing at the highest level. Touching throughout on what kept him going during his illness and what motivates him now. Ben’s story is truly remarkable. He is one of the most incredibly positive people I have ever met and truly is an inspiration.