April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognising the resilience of those affected by limb loss while advocating for greater accessibility and support.
Hospital physios Kerys Chamberlain and Shannon Jordan said they had been inspired to start the campaign by the number of people they were seeing for physiotherapy.
‘Limb loss affects millions of people across the world. Providing accessibility in sport can help those affected regain confidence, independence, and a sense of community through physical activity,’ said Miss Chamberlain.
‘We are also raising funds for ROMP Global, a charity dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable prosthetics to those in need, ensuring that limb loss is not a barrier to a fulfilling life.’
The duo are carrying out different challenges throughout April in the hope of raising £5,000.
Week one saw a challenge to get up off the floor using just one leg that was taken up by the Raiders Ladies’ rugby team and Lightning netball team, week two is odd-sock week, week three will see them host an afternoon tea at the physiotherapy ward, and the events will culminate in a marathon around Footes Lane in a self-propelled wheelchair.
Miss Jordan said that since Covid Guernsey had seen an increase in the number of people who have had limbs removed.
‘Although we don’t exactly know why, it is probably connected to conditions going undiagnosed during the pandemic,’ said Miss Chamberlain.
‘Any support will go directly towards these two life-changing initiatives – one ensuring that adaptive sports remain accessible in our local community, and the other helping to restore mobility and dignity to individuals in under-served regions.’
There are currently 63 islanders registered as amputees, and Miss Jordan said that many of these people were elderly and had limbs amputated after suffering vascular problems as well as amputations caused by cancers and injury.
They hope their afternoon tea and cake sale at the hospital can act as a catalyst for on-island support groups.
As well as the island’s amputees and their families and friends, the pair have invited representatives from the Sports Commission, Guernsey Mind and the States' inclusion officer in the hope of growing patients’ networks.
‘There used to be a charity that helped but that closed quite a few years ago,' said Miss Jordan.
'Current patients have a lot of issues with things like retaking driving tests which can prove to be really expensive.’
‘We hope that everyone can learn from each others’ experiences and meet other people they can relate to.’
You can support Kerys and Shannon’s fundraising efforts here.
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