In the summer we awarded funding to Debbie, 39, from Hull. She was born with congenital spina bifida and our grant was used to purchase a new ergonomic wheelchair and power attachment which would enable the chair to be used independently.
Debbie reported to us that the grant had made an incredible difference to both her physical & mental health and has been absolutely life changing. When her new equipment arrived she was completely overwhelmed. The new wheelchair is ergonomic which fully supports her spine, and has had a positive impact in significantly reducing her pain levels.
For a long time now due to her disability she has been reliant on others to fully mobilise outside her home safely. The power attachment allows her to be able to move safely alongside the people she's with. It is also enabling her to engage with people as an equal, rather than having to twist and turn around to have a conversation with the person pushing her.
Debbie said "Having recently been on a bike ride with friends, the opportunity to be outside in the fresh air, feel the breeze on my face, the sun on my skin and listen to the birds singing was overwhelming. It has given me hope, optimism and filled me with confidence to be able to mobilise independently with a positive future ahead".