Words by Abi Scaife
Claire Lomas MBE, fundraiser, motivational speaker and former event horse rider has sadly passed away.
Claire became a paraplegic in 2007 after an accident where she broke ribs, punctured a lung, fractured her neck, and obtained a severe spinal cord injury. After a lot of intense physical therapy, Claire’s condition improved quickly, and she made the decision to use her accident as a way to give back.
In 2012, Claire completed the 32nd Virgin London Marathon on 22 April 2012 using an incredible invention called the ReWalk suit. The suit works as an electronic exoskeleton, enabling people with paraplegia to walk in an upright position.
The Marathon took Claire 17 days to complete, as she walked 2 miles every day, accompanied by her husband, Dan. By the time she crossed the finish line, Claire had raised £90,000 which jumped to £143,000 five days later, smashing her original goal of £50,000.
The money raised by Claire was donated to Spinal Research, a charity dedicated to curing paraplegia and helping people to walk again.
Claire was awarded an MBE in the 2017 New Year Honours for charitable and voluntary services to Spinal Injury Research.
Claire’s dedication to positive change, and to raising money for charity, will be her legacy. Today, while our nation mourns someone who did so much for the disabled community, let us remember the incredible work that she did.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Scope. Scope is the disability equality charity in England and Wales, providing practical information and emotional support when it's most needed, campaigning to create a fairer society. Support them here.
Disability Rights UK. Disability Rights UK is the UK’s leading organisation led by, run by, and working for disabled people. Find out more.
Reach. Reach is a charity supporting children with upper limb differences and their families to live life without limitations. Learn more here.
This article aligns with the UN SDG Reduced Inequalities and Partnerships for the Goals.
