David Needham
Old Packhorse Way - Lake District Trek/Cycle/Paddle
Fundraising for LOROS, the Leicestershire and Rutland Hospice
Story
My name is David Needham and I have Motor Neurone Disease. MND doesn't have me though! :) I received my diagnosis in early 2014 after raising a few issues with my GP in mid-2011. I'm sure that you're thinking that two and half years is a long time to wait for a diagnosis, but this isn't unusual at all. I mention the timescale not to complain, but to highlight how lucky I am. For many in my situation, two and a half years may exceed the time between first symptoms and their passing. For me, the disease has only taken my ability to walk and the dexterity of my hands at this time. I have a lot to be grateful for!
Because progression of this disease for many is swift, getting assistance and suitable equipment to MND sufferers and their families through traditional services frequently takes too long and aids and services often arrive too late. LOROS and the Leicestershire & Rutland MNDA do their very best to negate these issues and I would very much like to do my bit to help them help others in my situation.
You”d think in this day and age that tables would be designed to suit a broad range of users, both able bodied and the disabled. The reality is quite different though! More often than not, as a wheelchair user, I find it difficult to use standard tables and other furniture in public places. With this fundraiser, I’m hoping to raise funds to allow LOROS to purchase height adjustable tables. Tables that can be used by both the able bodied and disabled alike.
LOROS is a charity whose aim is to enhance the quality of life of adult patients with cancer, progressive neurological conditions and end-stage organ failure for whom curative treatment is no longer possible. Patients are treated at the Hospice and in the community based upon clinical need, regardless of background and the ability to pay.