In 2021 Ted Lee’s life changed in an instant when he was run-over by a semi-trailer while riding his motorcycle – a devastating accident that left him paralysed.

Now the 26-year-old Aveley resident is defying all odds as he prepares to walk 3km to raise money for leading suicide prevention agency Lifeline WA.

It has taken 275 days in hospital and more than 30 gruelling surgeries, but the mechanical engineer is determined to participate in this year’s HBF Run for a Reason on May 25 to inspire others who may be facing their own physical or mental health battles.

“After my accident I was in a medically induced coma for two weeks before waking up to face the unimaginable news that I would never walk again,” Mr Lee said.

“My days were spent staring at the ceiling of the trauma ward questioning my future and my sense of purpose just evaporated.

“I can’t recall how many times I broke down, but it was a lot.”

Despite the bleak prognosis Mr Lee spent months in intensive physiotherapy, undertook strength training and relied on the emotional support of family and friends to achieve his dream of once again standing on his own two feet.

That milestone was finally achieved last year, and the joyous moment inspired his decision to sign up for HBF Run for a Reason 2025.

“The HBF run marks my first physical challenge since my accident, it will be a proud moment and a celebration of resilience,” Mr Lee said.

“Just four years ago, taking a single step seemed impossible, but now I’m preparing to walk 3km for a cause close to my heart.”

HBF Run for a Reason is Perth’s biggest annual fitness fundraising challenge and each year thousands of participants choose a charity and fundraising goal to run, walk or wheel towards.

Mr Lee chose to support Lifeline WA due to his deeply personal connection to mental health.

“I lost a close friend to suicide last year, and I’ve had my own battles with mental health since the accident,” he said.

“There were days when I felt like giving up. That’s why Lifeline WA is so important, they’re there for people when they need it most.”

In 2024, Lifeline WA crisis supporters handled an unprecedented 152,879 conversations – a staggering increase of 31 per cent on 2023.

Mr Lee’s goal is not just to raise money to support Lifeline WA’s lifesaving work, but to give hope to others who may be facing adversity.

“I want people to know that recovery is possible, and that help is out there,” he said.

“If my story encourages even one person to reach out to Lifeline WA, then it’s worth every step.”

To donate visit www.runforareason25.grassrootz.com/lifeline-wa/ted

Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14 for an online chat.