My Story

Hi everyone,

I managed to complete this event.  Having a chronic condition myself, it was a real confidence boost that I could rely on my body and mind to achieve this.  I didn't just achieve it, I absolutely loved it!!  I would recommend to anyone who likes cycling and wants a challenge :)

If, like me you'd like to raise money for Invictus, you will find that they are very supportive.

I have seen first hand how this amazing charity enables people to achieve what you would not believe possible.

I recently attended a ski-ing trip in Colorado, and witnessed a man with no arms snowboarding, people with missing lower limb/s competing in ski competitions and cross country skiing races; either in sit-ski's or standing on their prosthetics, blind veterans ski-ing really fast downhill or cross-country.  To put it into perspective, initially I was falling over on Nordic Ski's whenever the 'tracks' ran out because I was reliant on seeing them!  There was also a person who suffers with hypermobility, who could not ski whilst standing because of their joints dislocating - this person was fitted out with a sit-ski.....and although it was EXTREMELY hard work they loved it!

With amazing coaches, the correct kit and equipment, and a whole load of bravery, determination and teamwork lives can be improved.  This is reflected across many sports, e.g. I have a friend who has been selected for the rowing, and I am extremely proud of her.

Not forgetting of course, having life changing injuries can really knock confidence, self-esteem, self-worth, and can cause mental health problems and social isolation.  The opportunity to even take part in the trials for the Invictus Games introduces people to others who are going through/have been through similar struggles, and it is so inspirational to see what they are achieving.

This is all dependant on the money donated by extremely generous people.  Every penny counts.

Rebecca Hutchinson