Disability Triathlon

Joanna Shallcross is raising money for HEEL AND TOE

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.

For more information please see the attached link: http://www.heelandtoe.org.uk/

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.

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