Subscribe to Whizz-Kidz NewsCardiff man hits £2k in personal wheelchair challenge for Whizz-Kidz
Nat Rowson, 30, from Canton in Cardiff, was diagnosed with a tumour in his spinal cord two years ago this month – now a wheelchair-user, he set himself a personal challenge to raise funds for young people who struggle to get the equipment that has given him his independence.
Nat’s challenge saw him race 10k around the Llanelli Coastal Path in his wheelchair on Saturday 17 July, where he doubled his target and raised over £2,000 for Whizz-Kidz!
He explains;
“I chose to do a 10K because I wanted to do something that was a real challenge, and it certainly was! There were a few big hills on the course and I was aching afterwards! One positive for me was the training has built up my muscles and so the every day challenges (kerbs, sloping pavements etc) have become a lot easier.”
“It was two years to the day since the operation on my tumour. Throughout my treatment (major surgery, radiotherapy and then chemotherapy) I have been fortunate enough to get help from some amazing people – doctors, nurses, physios, occupational therapists, carers – all fantastic. Importantly I got this help when I needed it. When it became clear I needed a wheelchair I was provided a personalised one within a couple of months.
“Unfortunately not everyone gets the wheelchair they need so quickly. For children, a few months makes all the difference – especially when they are growing so fast. I know how valuable the right wheelchair is so I wanted to help others get what they need.”
The right wheelchair and mobility equipment is not automatically provided on the NHS, and it is virtually impossible for a disabled young person to get a powered wheelchair. This is where Whizz-Kidz comes in – they supply equipment and training to young people when they need it, and as early a stage as possible.
Ashley Westpfel, Community Fundraising Manager at the charity added:
“We’re hugely grateful that Nat wanted to help some of the 70,000 children in the UK who are still waiting for the right wheelchair. We’ve changed the lives of 11,000 children and young people since 1990, and it’s with only with the help of people like Nat, working hard and raising vital funds. And hopefully having some fun while doing it! £2,000 is a fantastic result.”
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