Hi! My name is Ben and I have a condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2.
The condition means that the messages from my brain don't get to my muscles properly. I can move every single muscle just not enough to do anything.
Unfortunately, the condition gradually becomes worse over time. This happens at random times and my strength “dips”, and then stabilises at that new level. Each time, more difficult to manage physically, and especially emotionally.
As a child, I was obsessed with a game called Boccia.
The aim of the game is to throw leather balls — coloured red or blue, as close as you can to a white target ball, or jack.
It was my dream to compete at the Paralympic Games.
As I can’t throw, I used to use a ramp to get the balls onto the court which I would release with my hand.
Just before university, I was beginning to get rather good. (Even if I do say so myself).
I was in a youth talent squad, and I was winning medals at competitions.
At the time I was going through a period of getting weaker. Thinking about it now, I realise that I couldn’t accept this and stopped playing. I told myself at the time that university was the reason for stopping.
BUT NOW I’M BACK!
I have been inspired by the Paralympics in Paris and realised that I should never have stopped.
Due to my weakened strength, I can no longer use the equipment that I previously used.
That’s why I’m trying to raise funds to by a ramp, mount pointer, and magnetic ball holder to allow me to play again.
I acknowledge that I am going to have to start from the bottom again, but the earlier I start training, the earlier I can get back to where I was.
Together, you can help me achieve my childhood dream.
Any additional funds donated will be given to Spinal Muscular Atrophy Support UK.
LETS GET ME TO LA!!
Thank you 😊🙂