Malcolm Guest is taking to the skies for a zip wire challenge in aid of the MS Therapy Centre.
On April 15, the 64-year-old from Wigan will be taking on The Penrhyn Quarry Zip World challenge, which reaches speeds of up to 100mph, and is the fastest and longest zip wire in Europe.
But when your usual mode of transport is a wheelchair it becomes a very different prospect.
Malcolm is undertaking this feat in aid of the MS Therapy Centre, as he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) 35 years ago when he developed numbness in one leg.
He is a regular visitor to the Centre in Eccles where he undergoes Oxygen Therapy and enjoys the sense of community where other MS sufferers, their families, friends and carers understand the condition.
He said: “I am now a wheelchair user for my mobility needs, so the normal fundraising options of running and walking are out of my scope BUT I am quite good at falling so it seems “natural” to try and use this to help raise funds.’
Malcolm’s son, daughter and son-in-law (pictured) have also chosen to join him on the challenge. They hope to raise £2,500.
The charity bought new premises just before Covid 19 struck. They have been working hard to renovate the building but are currently restricted to only the ground floor of the premises.
Ann Hedley, trustee said: “We are so grateful to Malcolm for taking on this challenge. It’s a pretty scary thing to do for most people but for Malcolm to leave behind his wheelchair and get up there leaves me with nothing but admiration for him.
“Covid affected so many organisations and it has really dealt us a blow in being able to progress our new building. The outstanding work includes physiotherapy rooms, gyms, consultation rooms, offices, therapy rooms and accessible bathrooms.
“It’s really important for those living with MS to keep mobile and these facilities aim to support that. We all know that building materials and costs have gone up so we really are battling against the tide to get these facilities up and running. People like Malcolm who are raising money to help do this are all heroes to us.”
To sponsor Malcolm, visit: https://bit.ly/4k7Y2Lc.
