Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK), have launched a new fundraising campaign aiming to encouraging people to get active and raise money during the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The idea is that individuals and groups to set their own 10,000m goal to be completed between 26th July and 8th September, with all monies raised from activities going directly to helping more people with disabilities in Britain experience the benefits of adaptive skiing and snowboarding.
The charity advises the 10k distance can be achieved by taking on anything from a run, swim or cycle to skiing or snowboarding 10,000 vertical metres. All monies raised from each challenge will contribute towards their £10,000 target.
The campaign is being supported by Annabel Kiki, 16, from Cannock, who is an adaptive skier, model and striker for the England Amputee Football Association women’s team.
Annabel, who was diagnosed with a bone tumour in her left leg age 13 years old says, “Skiing was my biggest passion growing up. I love the thrill, freedom and fun of being out in the mountains.
“In 2022, one of the worst things in the world happened to me. I started the year with two legs and ended it with one. Losing a leg was very traumatic, but today I live by the motto “It’s not what happens to me, it’s what I choose to become”.
“I can’t control what’s happened, I can only control my reaction to it and by practising skiing again, I’ve learned to do every single other sport and it’s pushed me to be better than I was before. It’s helped me achieve so much more in my everyday life – like helping with my balance and being able to walk better on my prosthetic, along with surfing and football. It’s with thanks to DSUK I’ve got my confidence back.”
“I don’t like to think of myself as disabled, I like to think of myself as enhanced. I still wanted to achieve my dreams I had before my amputation, even though they’re adapted now, just like me.
“I don’t know what I would have done if I couldn’t relearn to ski. It’s always been such a big part of my life. Being part of the #TeamDSUK 10k for £10k campaign and helping people like me get back on their feet is a great feeling, and it would be amazing to give the opportunities DSUK have given me to other people.”
DSUK operate ski schools at various locations throughout the UK as well as providing opportunities to ski and snowboard in a mountain environment worldwide.
The charity are supported by a fantastic team of highly-qualified adaptive instructors as well as a brilliant network of passionate and skilled volunteers – working together to ensure that everybody has the opportunity to access snowsport.
To take part in the #TeamDSUK 10k for £10k challenge or to learn more about Disability Snowsport UK visit www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk/events/10k-for-10k
Pictures © Cameron Ross Hall // Holmlands
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