Katherine's Challenge

The Spinal Unit Recreation Fund (SURF) is based at the Pinderfields Hospital Spinal Unit. This is very local, small charity and in truth, I didn't really know much about the unit or the Fund until my great-niece Beth, was admitted in 2020 with transverse myelitis. Within hours of having tingling in her left arm, she was quadraplegic (no movement in any of her limbs or internally). She was incredibly strong, whilst all the family were wrecks (pretty much). SURF were there on the ward, helping and advising immediately and worked alongside the nursing staff to great effect with her and us.

SURF do a most incredible job on the ward and off-site in helping all those people who have spinal injuries (whether as a result of health or an accident). It's not just the recreation aspect - and of course, who doesn't like to have fun with friends and family - but the support in everything financial/practical that often comes with such a diagnosis, is second-to-none.

In thinking about who I might have as my charity for my London Marathon run (ten times of applying I finally got in!) - I realised there would be no better than SURF. I do appreciate that financially things are difficult for lots of people, but feel that even just £1 would make a difference.

Thank you