Help Colin Stand Up to MS
Donation protected
I'm Colin Higgins, and in 2010, at the age of 39, I was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS), a degenerative neurological condition which stops me controlling my body's movements. It has now affected me to the point where I can no longer stand and I use a wheelchair full-time, with help for everyday tasks from my amazing wife, friends, family and a team of carers.
Recently, I had a trial of an astonishing piece of equipment, which would really make a huge difference to my independence and quality of life and so I am asking for help to fundraise for a Genie Standing Wheelchair. It actually "transforms" from a seated position to a standing or even a lying down position.
During the trial I was able to stand up for the first time, without neuropathic pain, in at least two years. Even though I do daily physio exercises and attend a gym twice a week, being restricted to a seated position is very bad for my comfort and health. I would love to be able to independently change position as and when I need and to have the option to speak to people face to face again.
My background is working in wildlife conservation and I was able to remain in full time work until 2 years ago. Wildlife remains a passion and despite my restricted mobility I continue to study the bees, butterflies and other wildlife in my garden with great interest. The Genie chair would help me move around more easily and get a better view.
The Genie wheelchairs are custom built to individual
specifications, which is really important for a taller person like myself. I long to stand up at my full 6ft 3" once again!
The chair costs £12,000 including the modifications needed for it to travel in a wheelchair adapted vehicle. We are approaching charities and businesses as well as asking friends, family and former colleagues if they are able to donate or fundraise. Please feel free to share this page.
Any contribution is greatly appreciated and will make a life changing difference to me.
Thank you for Helping me Stand Up to MS!
Recently, I had a trial of an astonishing piece of equipment, which would really make a huge difference to my independence and quality of life and so I am asking for help to fundraise for a Genie Standing Wheelchair. It actually "transforms" from a seated position to a standing or even a lying down position.
During the trial I was able to stand up for the first time, without neuropathic pain, in at least two years. Even though I do daily physio exercises and attend a gym twice a week, being restricted to a seated position is very bad for my comfort and health. I would love to be able to independently change position as and when I need and to have the option to speak to people face to face again.
My background is working in wildlife conservation and I was able to remain in full time work until 2 years ago. Wildlife remains a passion and despite my restricted mobility I continue to study the bees, butterflies and other wildlife in my garden with great interest. The Genie chair would help me move around more easily and get a better view.
The Genie wheelchairs are custom built to individual
specifications, which is really important for a taller person like myself. I long to stand up at my full 6ft 3" once again!
The chair costs £12,000 including the modifications needed for it to travel in a wheelchair adapted vehicle. We are approaching charities and businesses as well as asking friends, family and former colleagues if they are able to donate or fundraise. Please feel free to share this page.
Any contribution is greatly appreciated and will make a life changing difference to me.
Thank you for Helping me Stand Up to MS!
Organizer
Colin Higgins
Organizer
