Anyone who reads this blog will know most of the posts are about arts and entertainment. However, this story was one I thought I should share.
It concerns John Dickinson-Lilley - a member of the British Disabled Ski Team who is currently the
UK's number one blind male ski racer.
The 36-year old from
Forest Hill and who is registered blind only took up skiing five
years ago.
He said: "I
started losing my sight when I was 13. I never went skiing as a
youngster and it was only when I was on holiday with some friends
five years ago that I had a go.
"I really enjoyed
it - it's an amazing feeling to be skiing at speeds of between 30 and
60mph in the fresh air - there's nothing like it.
"I was told I was
quite good so began training and got a guide who skis with me and for
the past three years I have been competing in competitions around the
world.
"My guide, Jack
Davey, and I communicate via blue tooth head sets and I trust him
completely."
Mr Dickinson-Lilley who
is head of public affairs at Solicitors Regulation Authority said he
has been using savings and donations from friends and family but is
running out of cash and is now desperate for sponsorship.
He said: "We get
£1,000 from a sports charity and Finches Ski Shop in Forest Hill has
been fantastic in its support including helping out with the cost of
repairing the skis.
"However, the rest
is self funded and to continue to compete on a part time basis I need
about £30,000 a year as I have to pay for all Jack's equipment,
travel and accommodation costs as well as my own.
"The kit alone is
very expensive. For example a set of skis costs more than £1,000
each and I need eight pairs.
"I have enough
saved to last me the next six weeks but unless I get some sponsorship
I'm not sure what will happen."
Mr Dickinson-Lilley
said he hopes the recent success of the British Ski Team will
encourage businesses or individuals to help financially.
He said: "We've
had a good season so far securing three golds and a bronze in
international competitions. I hope this inspires people to support
us."
https://www.justgiving.com/jdl-ski/
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