Hi, I’m Ian—also known as Freddy—a passionate wheelchair archer, father, and advocate for true accessibility.

In early 2019, my life changed dramatically when I was diagnosed with a rare spinal condition—Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament (OPLL) in my Cervical Spine. Within months, I went from being an operational Paramedic, Paramedic Tutor, and motorcyclist to living with significant mobility challenges, chronic pain, and relying on a wheelchair.

But I’ve never been one to give up.

I found a new passion in archery—a sport that offers focus, purpose, and a community where precision and determination matter more than physical limitations. Archery has become my way of staying active, both physically and mentally, proving that disability doesn’t mean the end of adventure.

However, participating in sport—and living independently—with a disability comes with real, ongoing challenges. I’m now facing critical barriers that I can’t overcome alone.

Why I’m Fundraising

I’m raising funds to support three essential areas that will allow me to stay mobile, independent, and active in adaptive archery:

1. Outdoor-Ready Powered Wheelchair

My current wheelchair is falling apart and isn’t suitable for outdoor archery ranges or uneven terrain. I urgently need a reliable, all-terrain powered wheelchair to safely access training grounds and competitions.

2. Home Access Adaptations

At present, stairs prevent me from easily accessing my own home. The new wheelchair will help to ensure I can enter and leave my house safely and independently until I can save up enough money to fund the necessary adaptations for me to access the front of the house.

3. Accessible Vehicle for Transport & Independence

To attend archery events, medical appointments, and simply live day-to-day, I need a vehicle that can accommodate both a powered wheelchair and my archery equipment.

I’m going to try and get help from a vehicle provider if possible. However, I may need to come back to Go Fund Me in the future if I don’t succeed.

Total Fundraising Goal: £15,000

These aren’t luxury items—they’re vital to maintaining my independence, wellbeing, and ability to continue in the sport I love while advocating for better accessibility for all.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just about me shooting arrows—this is about breaking barriers. I believe accessibility should never be an afterthought. Through my journey, I have been raising awareness of the everyday challenges disabled people face, whether that’s accessing a sports field, a venue, or even their own front door and I need help to continue this.

Every donation, no matter how small, helps me move closer to independence, continued participation in archery, and amplifying the message that inclusion matters.

If you’re unable to donate, you can still make a huge difference by sharing this fundraiser with your network. Awareness is just as powerful as funding.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and belief that everyone deserves the freedom to move, participate, and live fully.

Follow my story at:

https://freddyarchery.uk/journal