UPDATE 04/07/25: Michaels chair has now completely stopped and he is reliant on a manual chair that he cannot use himself, so further independence lost.

My son Michael & I will be completing the full loop around Lake Kielder (26 miles) on 1st August 2025. Our aim is to raise funds for a replacement standing power wheelchair, whilst also shining a light on the realities that so many families quietly face.

Michael has now been on the NHS Wheelchair Services waiting list for 18 months. This is clearly not evidence of ‘timely assessment & provision of essential equipment’, as per the National Institute of Care & Excellence guidelines.

From a physiological point of view, the ability to stand isn’t just about freedom—it’s vital to Michael’s health. Not being able to stand regularly has a knock-on effect on his bone density, joint health, and even digestion. His body isn’t designed to be seated all day, and his old chair allowed him to safely stretch out and support key bodily functions.

But now, that chair is breaking down.

The lift and standing functions no longer work.

The front headlight is missing.

The tyres are worn and unsafe.

The computer system often crashes, and I’ve personally seen it shut down completely while Michael was out in public—leaving him stranded, unable to move. The chair has no handles and weighs a ton. It’s not just broken—it’s dangerous.

To make things worse, Michael now struggles with curbs and access routes. His chair used to be able to raise up and mount them, giving him far more freedom of movement. But now, he has to rely on drop curbs—which are few and far between and often blocked by parked cars. He’s forced to navigate a world that’s suddenly become far less accessible

Despite these challenges, Michael is one of the most determined people I know. He trains in the gym with his personal trainer twice a week, proudly sharing his progress on social media to inspire others. He also attends an accessible gym, plays badminton and boccia, goes bowling, and goes horse-riding, which gives him a sense of freedom few activities can match.

Michael also volunteers at Lakes & Dales Supermarket , a role that gives him purpose and connection to the community. But he relies on his chair’s lift and standing functions to do his tasks properly and independently—without them, even small jobs become impossible.

Michael doesn’t want sympathy—he just wants to keep doing the things he loves, independently and confidently. Your donation will directly help him reclaim his mobility, confidence, and quality of life.

Every contribution, no matter how small, gets us closer to that goal.

Thank you for helping Michael stand tall again!