In 2018 I had a spinal cord cord injury which has severely limited my mobility and now means that I am now dependent upon using a manual wheelchair to get about.

As you can imagine, this was quite a shock and I have had to make significant changes to my life. However, I am fiercely independent and determined not to allow this to get in the way. I might have a wonky body but I am still me! Using a manual wheelchair is fine for day to day use, but there are times when it can be severely limiting.

I am a self-employed textile artist and teacher, and I love teaching at stitching shows. These are large events where getting around can take quite a toll on my body, so by the end of the show I am suffering with a lot of pain and fatigue. I also travel out to groups and sometimes there can be quite a distance to travel between car parking and the venue. This year I started driving again in a car with hand controls, I am able to independently put my wheelchair in and out of the car and I would be able to independently put the Triride in and out of the car as it is portable.

The Triride is a lightweight device which fits on the front of a wheelchair and converts it to an electric wheelchair. The photo is just an example of what it looks like. Having this would make so much difference to my life, not only for stitching shows, but also for getting out and about in more difficult terrain. It is a small rechargeable piece of equipment that can be taken on and off very easily by myself. This is such an expensive piece of equipment that I am I having to ask you for help. Even small amounts will make a difference to me and the final amount raised. It will allow me to continue doing what I love the most.