Assuming you are all busy I hope you will take a few minutes out of your schedule for something I would like to share with you. 

As you may or may not know I was involved in a low speed collision with a car whilst riding my motorbike and an unfortunate landing resulting in various injuries. This happened 21st May 2013 and left me with a spinal cord injury, resulting in the loss of the function in my hands and legs amongst other complications.

The reason I am asking for your attention and help is that at the moment there is no cure for spinal cord injury. Unfortunately this has a dramatic effect on families, relationships and social life. In the past 3 years I have seen that the majority of these injuries happen incredibly easily - falling down the stairs, mountain biking, slipping on an icy road or leaves, etc. In other words, it can happen to you or one of your loved ones today.

I am determined to do what I can to help find a cure. Unfortunately I am not yet able to run a marathon to raise money so this is where you come in. It would be great if you could donate or fundraise to help make a difference, any ideas you have are welcome and greatly appreciated. Your donation will be part of Guy Martin's Big Brew initiative, Guy is a Spinal Research Ambassador after realising he has been lucky to not end up paralysed himself. My aim is to raise as much money as possible, with the added bonus of having a chance later this year to meet Guy if you and I can raise more money than anyone else.

The field of spinal cord injury research has taken many lessons from other fields. Worldwide collaborative approaches amongst clinicians and researchers, as well as funding organisations, ensure Spinal Research UK's efforts are as coordinated and effective as possible. As well as funding internationally, Spinal Research has actively pursued collaborative efforts.

For more information please visit www.spinal-research.org or ask me.

On behalf of everyone with spinal cord injury thank you so much for what you can do.

Cheers,
Swen