Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I was first introduced to Back-Up when I was in Stoke Mandeville hospital from June - September 2013. I have a complete Spinal cord injury (SCI) at thoracic level 10 (T10) following a spinal stroke. I was cycling to work one morning when I suddenly noticed I couldn't push the pedals round on my bike; from losing the power in my legs first thing in the morning I was told later that same day that it was unlikely I would ever walk again.

Back up started to teach me  basic wheelchair skills when I was in hospital but they offer much much more than making sure you learn those essential skills. Back Up  were 30 years old in 2016 and are a continually expanding charity who support spinal cord injured people and their families. Their ethos is to help people get the most out of life whatever that may be - sport, work, family life, travel...... Many  of those who benefit from Back Up's services go on to become volunteers for them.  I am now one of their volunteers supporting their adult mentorship programme and the wheelchair skills training.  It's a great feeling to be able to give something back, doing something worthwhile, raising awareness and enjoying myself all at the same time - you get fun and friendship with the Back Up family.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.