Hi everyone, my name is Glen, and I’m a T3 complete paraplegic. Life changed dramatically for me three years ago after my accident. I’m grateful to still be here, I spent 42 days in intensive care, and just as long on a breathing machine. I had to relearn how to breathe, drink, eat, and swallow.

One thing that didn’t change was my drive to stay active, strong, and connected to the community. Getting back to volunteering, keeping my body moving, and staying involved has been a big part of my recovery.

Up until now, insurance has helped cover my personal care and some adaptive equipment. But there are still things that will improve my strength, independence and everyday life - and that’s where I’m hoping for your support.

With encouragement from my physios (who say that I have some ‘abnormal’ strength), and a bit of family influence – my brother is a world champion powerlifter- I’ve discovered a real passion for para powerlifting and handcycling.

To keep progressing, I’m raising funds for two key pieces of adaptive equipment.

1. Para Powerlifting Bench

This bench is specially designed for athletes with spinal cord injuries. It allows safe, stable bench pressing, which would help me to train properly and push towards my competitive goals (mainly beating my brother!). Building and maintaining upper body muscle strength is vital for people with spinal cord injuries, as it allows us to maintain our independence, and carry out everyday tasks with minimal assistance.

Right now, I rely on standard benches and can only train once a week with physio support. A para bench would let me train safely at my brother’s gym, both independently and under his coaching.

It would also be available to others in the community. There are currently no adaptive benches in the southeastern suburbs of Perth – this would change that.

2. Handcycle

A handcycle will let me ride outdoors, enjoy the fresh air, and take part in community events. It’s not just exercise – it’s independence, adventure and social connection.

I currently use a handcycle attachment, but I am becoming too strong for it, and risk breaking it when I push harder.

Both of these pieces of equipment are expensive, but they’ll make a huge difference in my daily life, my long-term health, and my ability to participate in adaptive sport.

If you’re able to contribute - whether it’s through a donation or simply sharing this page - I’d be deeply grateful. Your support helps me stay active, independent, and engaged with the adaptive community.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for believing in what’s possible.

Let’s lift. Let’s roll. Let’s move forward — together.