Funding was awarded in May to Mark (Tigs), who suffers from complex PTSD and chronic pain which affects his entire body. He also suffers with chronic fatigue and migraines. He is unable to drive or work and is married with two young children.
The grant was used to purchase a wheelchair Tri-ride. A Tri-ride is a wheelchair attachment that converts a wheelchair into a powered trike. This was compatible with his rigid frame wheelchair. The purchase of the Tri-ride has meant that he can leave the family home independently, which has meant that he is able to continue to fulfil some of his volunteer positions with far greater ease rather than relying on others.
He helps to facilitate a youth group and community breakfast locally and it has changed his life and helped him to reserve energy levels for other activities such as playing with his children. He has been able to volunteer for the West Midlands Paraclimbing Club and also helped to run a session for Birmingham Children’s hospital over the summer.
The Tri-ride has also helped Mark to attend other support groups which had become increasingly hard for him to access. It has also helped him to get to hospital appointments and other health related appointments independently.
As he gains confidence in the ability of the Tri-ride he hopes to be able to start accessing his local swimming pool. This would help him not just physically, but also mentally.
The Tri-ride has also made it possible for Mark to go on family walks. He has enjoyed being able to be alongside his family again, but also being at his children's height.