A wheelchair user is gearing up for his biggest challenge to date when he takes on a 10k ski-fit challenge for a charity close to his heart.
Richard Trumble, 57, has cerebral palsy but is a regular at Reebok CrossFit in Byker.
As a child Richard attended Percy Hedley School and now lives at The Percy Hedley Foundation’s adult residence in Forest Hall.
He is no stranger to fundraising via challenging means and has already completed a CrossFit challenge and zipwire from the top of the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Arts in aid of the Foundation.
His latest challenge is a 10k ski-fit challenge on August 8 at Reebok CrossFit when he will be raising money for the residents fund at Percy Hedley.
For Richard, taking part in such challenges isn’t just about raising money though.
Three years ago he suffered a broken foot and because of his cerebral palsy has suffered with a condition called oedema ever since.
Oedema is caused by an excess of watery fluid and can cause severe swelling. Physiotherapy helps ease the swelling but when Richard lost his funding for physio his doctor suggested trying CrossFit.
Since taking up the exercise, Richard has benefitted hugely with CrossFit helping to maintain his mobility and also leg and upper body strength.
“If I didn’t do CrossFit I would be curled up in a ball. I wouldn’t be able to get out into the community. I would be bed bound,” Richard explained.
If I don’t keep myself mobile fluid builds up and causes swelling which can be very painful.”
Richard is looking for sponsors to help fund transport to and from the CrossFit gym. If you are interested in supporting Richard continue his training please contact Chipchase House on 0191 238 1313.
Huge thanks to Sainsbury’s Local Forest Hall who will be providing free water for Richard during his challenge and to Jordan Wallace at CrossFit Tyneside for his training support.
Richard’s challenge starts at 11am on Tuesday, August 8. To sponsor him visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/richard-trumble2 or text RTRU66 to 70070