By Josephine Stacey and Ryan Tout
Douglas Stafford’s very own David Williamson, a double amputee from Portsmouth, is about to take on a mammoth challenge. David, our Senior Data Analyst, is going to complete a 24 hour “push” around the lake at 1000 Lakeside, North Harbour in aid of Willow’s Vision Appeal. David will push himself through day and night, only stopping to take five minute breaks.
David was born without tibia bones which resulted in both his legs being amputated in his first few months, but this has never stopped him from competing in a challenge! In 2014, he completed the Great South Run for a third time, in an amazing 1 hour and 27 minutes where he raised money for Willows Vision Appeal.
“I wanted to raise money for a local charity or a local person that I could personally see would have a benefit,” David told us. “In my previous job, I worked with a guy whose niece was severely disabled, and at the time they were selling wristbands for her. She popped into my head, so I contacted my friend who put me in touch with Gemma, Willow’s mum, and we got talking. I had only been at Douglas Stafford a short while, but we were even able to get the story in the news.”
“We managed to raise enough money to buy Willow a walker, which was of great benefit to her movement and development. It’s a step forward for her which is fantastic.”
After fundraising for Willow’s Vision Appeal in 2014, David wanted to take on a bigger challenge.
“I wanted to do more; I’m never satisfied or content that I have done enough. I wanted to take on a bigger challenge… something different.”
David aims to raise £10,000 to go towards Willow’s life changing Stem Cell Treatment in China which costs £25,000. Willow is an amazing little girl despite the fact that she has Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus and is registered blind. This treatment will greatly enhance her vision and mobility.
“Obviously the next step from 10 miles is a straight 24 hour push…I think I’ve missed a few steps in-between. But I wanted to raise enough money to really make a difference to Willow, to her family and to their situation.”
David told us his mantra:
“I’m not the hero in all of this, I just want to help.
I was never clever enough to be a scientist,
I was never driven enough to become a doctor,
I was never caring enough to be a nurse.
I can only help by bringing attention to this worthy cause.”
The 24 Hour Push is taking place on Saturday 2nd April through to Sunday 3rd April 2016 starting at 11am, with stalls and activities for all ages. We would love you to come down to Lakeside North Harbour to cheer David on!
For more information, please contact Jane Yule or Josephine Stacey:
To donate, please click here.
