Buy a Beach Wheelchair for a Land Mermaid

I'm Tori, and live with a neuromuscular condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Having lived by the sea my entire life, I haven't been able to spend much time in it as an adult. As a child my family could carry me into the water but now my abilities and dignity doesn't allow for that (I'm lucky if there is a boardwalk to get closer to the sea) - here's where you come in.

Unexpectedly, a few beaches in Torbay now have accessible beach wheelchairs that I've been fortunate to try, after pre-booking and paying to hire for an hour. This is an amazing prospect that private companies are finally opening up more options for severely disabled visitors, however they are few and far between. Living in a tourism-driven area means that these facilities are less likely to be available on demand and are limited to a few select tourism hotspots - the ones locals avoid!

After 20 years of unable to safely enter the water or feel the sand between my toes, trialing a beach wheelchair was a completely overwhelming experience. I was able to be my full mermaid self and enjoy the beach just as any able bodied visitor (except I paid for the access, had a time limit, and could only use the chair as instructed) - and i've been reminiscing of this experience ever since.

I've been debating opening this fundraising account because I felt some kind of guilt asking for help, particularly when everyone is feeling the pinch. But this isnt to fund a holiday, to fund a one off, to fund a rare experience, this is me asking for help to fund a little slice of freedom for myself. A mobility aid that can also set me up for a lifetime of new experiences and new adventures.

A beach wheelchair will help me to become a bit more, well, me.

I've been able to put together the bespoke requirements for my supported needs with the manufacturer, with exactly the right supportive sections and straps so that I can remain as safe and comfortable as possible when using the chair pushed by an assistant - as opposed to the 'one size fits all' approach when hiring them. This will ensure that I can explore any beach or moorland at any time, rather than hiring in select areas.

This chair is expensive, but entirely supports my physical self whilst promoting my independence and nurturing mental wellbeing. All equipment is very costly, but this should support me for many many years ahead. Thank you so much if you are able to contribute to my cause.