We provide a range of therapies to children to help with their disabilities
Story
I am lucky enough that part of my work includes
coaching children with disability. It amazes me every session the determination
and focus they have in conquering new skills such as being able to kneel and
stand unaided and in many cases being able to walk. But sometimes I am also
saddened by their lack of belief in what they are capable of achieving.
When I mentioned to some of the children and their families the idea of them
doing a triathlon, it was met with a lot of disbelief that it was at all
possible, yet many of them already swim, bike and in some cases walk.
I am
pleased to say we have numerous children ranging in disabilities from cerebral
Palsy, Down syndrome and Perthes disease taking part and I believe this event
will give these children 2 valuable experiences namely the confidence gained
from achieving what they thought was not possible and the opportunity to raise
funds for themselves which will take some of that burden away from their
parents.
I
believe this event will help inspire, enhance confidence and give the children
an undeniable sense of achievement. I want them to see that anything is
possible whilst at the same time diminish some of their negative attitudes
towards what they can and can’t do.
The
Disability triathlon has another very important aspect to it and that is to
raise money. The event is to raise money and awareness for a local charity in
the North East called Heel and Toe. Heel & Toe are a Children's Charity
providing therapy to children with Cerebral Palsy and other physical
disabilities. They offer a range of services including Occupational Therapy and
Physiotherapy.
Whilst
coaching the children I see how hard many families (parents) have to work to
raise enough money for their children to get the extra therapies needed to make
a difference to their quality of life. A single session at Heel and Toe is £60
and an intensive 1 week block is £600.
To
finance these sessions families have to put on many fundraising events ranging
from packing bags at local supermarkets to charity evenings and to more extreme
events such as a sponsored Zipwire across the Tyne. Its not just a case of
putting these events on, its finding people willing to attend and support them.
The
disability Triathlon will be the first time many of these youngsters have
raised money for themselves and that money will be going directly back to them
in a form of therapy that is vital to them. It would be fantastic to show
the children that by their taking part in such events now and in the future and
by challenging themselves people and businesses are willing to
support them and it really can make a difference to lives.