My name is Stephen McConnell, and I teach at Limavady High School along with Paul Elliker. Just over three years ago, one of our pupils, Brooke Canning, had her life turned upside down when a road accident left her paralysed from the chest down. Overnight, Brooke went from being a carefree teenager to facing life in a wheelchair, relearning the most basic skills and adapting to life as a tetraplegic.

On Saturday 27th September, (conditions permitting) Paul and I will swim from Portstewart to Portrush to raise funds for the Matt Hampson Foundation—a charity that has been a lifeline for Brooke in her recovery.

The Foundation was opened in 2018 by former rugby player Matt Hampson after his own life-changing injury and it supports people living with serious injuries. From world-class physiotherapy and specialist training to mental health and nutrition support, it helps young people rebuild their lives and, in their words, “Get Busy Living.”

Brooke has travelled to England to access this incredible care, and it has made a real difference in her journey. Our goal is to raise £20,000 so the Foundation can continue changing lives like Brooke’s.

Every donation—big or small—will help someone come to terms with a life changing injury, rebuild their strength, and reclaim their future.

👉 Please support us and donate through the link below. Together, we can make a difference