Two disability advocates, Josh Wintersgill and Maxwell McKnight, are gearing up to set a world record for the fastest climb up Mount Snowdon in a powered wheelchair. Their goal is not just to achieve this incredible feat but also to raise awareness about the inaccessibility of hiking spots for individuals with disabilities.
Both Wintersgill and McKnight have spinal muscular atrophy, a condition that affects their mobility. Despite this, they are determined to conquer Mount Snowdon using all-terrain wheelchairs and a team of supporters. They have already raised over £27,000 for Spinal Muscular Atrophy Charity UK, showcasing their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges.
For Josh Wintersgill, the motivation behind this challenge goes beyond personal accomplishment. As the founder and director of Able Move, a company that creates products for wheelchair users, he aims to highlight the importance of providing equipment that enables people with disabilities to access the outdoors. With the right support network and suitable equipment, he believes that outdoor exploration should be within reach for everyone.
The paths of these two inspiring advocates crossed at a spinal muscular atrophy activity weekend near Bristol. They quickly bonded over their shared love for nature and the outdoors. Maxwell McKnight, a student based in St Neots, Cambridgeshire, is especially excited about the upcoming climb. It will be his first time using an all-terrain wheelchair outside of familiar surroundings.
Josh Wintersgill has already tested his all-terrain wheelchair on several climbs. However, he has faced challenges due to man-made obstacles that restrict his path. He recalls a disappointing experience when he reached Pen y Fan in Wales, only to find a stile and a locked gate blocking his way. Determined not to be deterred, he later learned that a dedicated team had been established at Pen y Fan, allowing him to complete the climb successfully on his next attempt.
Unfortunately, there are numerous other trails in Wintersgill's area that remain inaccessible to wheelchair users due to obstacles like kissing gates. He emphasizes the importance of addressing these man-made structures to provide equal access to nature for everyone.
Maxwell McKnight also shares Wintersgill's passion for exploring the outdoors. Although he took geology for his GCSEs, he was unable to fully participate in outdoor activities with his classmates due to the limitations of his previous wheelchair. The all-terrain wheelchair opens up new possibilities for him, not only enhancing his mental well-being but also expanding his educational experiences. He believes that everyone should have the freedom to immerse themselves in nature without worrying about safety or accessibility.
The Know No Bounds campaign by Josh Wintersgill and Maxwell McKnight has garnered significant attention, raising awareness about the daily difficulties faced by individuals in wheelchairs. In less than three weeks, they have managed to raise an impressive amount of money for SMA UK and have received support from individuals around the world.
Their noble endeavor has gained praise from Pascale Harvie, president and general manager at JustGiving, who considers their campaign extraordinary. The impact they are making transcends the physical challenge they are undertaking. Their mission has touched many hearts and will inspire positive change in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
If you would like to contribute to their JustGiving fundraiser and support their cause, you can visit justgiving.com/campaign/knownobounds. Together, let's help pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible world, where everyone can enjoy the wonders of nature.
