Double amputee to complete marathon for girl with brain abnormalities

After winning the award in November, the 37-year-old wheelchair athlete, who is a double amputee, will be taking part in the Brighton Marathon on April 9.

This time, his efforts are in aid of a one-year-old girl named Felicity from Waterlooville, and her family.

David, from Portsmouth, said: ‘Felicity was born with three separate brain abnormalities, and so she and her family need a lot of support.

‘I’ll be raising money specifically for the adjustments that need making to their family home.’

David wants people to know he’s attempting the challenge, so they can donate to the cause and help his fundraising efforts.

In February, he won the HBSA Disabled Sportsperson of the Year award.

On his JustGiving fundraising page, David added: ‘Felicity suffers seizures on a daily basis, she has an unsafe swallow reflex so is fed through a tube, she has motor difficulties and serious visual impairment.

‘She tries very hard to lift her head, but struggles as it is so heavy.

‘This young lady has a lot of challenges ahead of her, and needs specialist equipment that just isn’t provided by the NHS.

‘It’s going to be a tough challenge, but it’s for such a worthy cause and for a family that have found themselves in the toughest of battles.’

So far more than £1,500 has been raised, but an extra £1,000 is needed.

Anyone wanting to help support the cause can contact David via Twitter at @theirishego.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Felicity2017.