Story
Finola has lived with cerebral palsy for 30 years. She is reliant on others for all her daily needs. She is unable to walk or sit unsupported. Her speech & learning are affected too. She requires specialist therapy to manage her condition to minimise pain & discomfort. The Finola Trust was formed when Finola was 4 years old by her mother, as she was advised by professionals/parents that there would be gaps of funding during her lifetime. The aims of the Finola Trust are to generate funding for essential equipment, physiotherapy and specialist education and whatever was needed for Finola's general health and well-being.. Despite Finola's disability she is always seen smiling, with a determination to influence her own world, inspiring people to “see me rather than someone in a wheelchair”.
We are currently fundraising as we have been advised that Finola's current Quickie Jive electric chair (fundraised by Finola Trust in 2017 - cost £13,100) will be due a replacement at the 8yrs old mark. The current cost of replacing it could be in the region of £15,500). This means we have 3 years to raise the money.
Current reserves set aside for the replacement wheelchair = £4,141.73
So what are we doing to raise the money?
Finola's mummy, Henrietta Forman and her cousin Jackie Mollison are going to ride the Calvert Trust ZipCoaster for Finola on Finola's birthday!
SATURDAY 20TH MAY 2023 Calvert Trust, Kielder.
Why is this such a big deal?
Answer: Finola's mother absolutely hates heights and rollercoasters (can't even go up a stepladder without getting stuck!), and Jackie gets motion sickness at the best of times... so between the two of them, it is definitely a big deal!
In May 2019 the Calvert Trust introduced the Kielder ZipCoaster.. Using an adapted roller coaster rail, the custom-built ‘Kielder ZipCoaster’ sees thrill-seekers safely harnessed into a seated position as they glide amongst the trees, dipping and twisting at speeds of up to 20mph. The ride is 197.6mtr long with 8 Vertical Elements and 3 Horizontal Elements, including a 270-degree turn and a 3m free-fall drop.
But Kielder added more… at Calvert Kielder they are renowned for their innovative approach to outdoor activities for disabled adults and children helping them to gain confidence and improve their health and wellbeing… and now they have the first ever Wheelchair Accessible AvatarOne™ in Europe.
Finola hurray you can do it too!
Should you be in a position to assist us we thank you so very much. Wheelchairs have to be right for the individual as it is not only the ability to be able to be physically moved but it is primarily 'quality of life'. The wrong chair and support can change the body, lead to physical changes and progressive pain, which then impacts on general health, including digestion. We truly thank you for enabling Finola to have the chair that works for her, keeping her mobile and able to move herself and free from pain. We truly do thank you. Finola, Henri & Jackie
