Local legend Loyd takes on charity challenge for disabled children

A local brain damage survivor is taking on a charity challenge to help disabled children and young adults get more mobile.

22 year-old Loyd Wildridge from Great Sutton – who has complex needs after suffering brain damage as a young child – is taking on a walking challenge for Children Today Charitable Trust this summer.   

As a previous beneficiary of the children’s disability charity, Loyd has decided to take part in Children Today’s inclusive event the ‘Wheely Great Challenge’, which aims to raise £10,000 to help disabled children and young adults unlock access to exercise and sport. 

The charity is inviting people to choose their own personal challenge based on the number 10 – whether it’s a 10K run, giving up the car and cycling to work for 10 days or hosting 10 coffee mornings. 

Loyd has chosen to walk 10K in 10 different towns this summer, including his hometown, Chester, Birkenhead and Liverpool.   

Helen, Loyd's mum says: “When Loyd was six he suffered a number of seizures and was put into a medically induced coma, resulting in brain damage. The damage to his brain left him unable to walk or talk.  

“Over the years he’s slowly relearnt to walk and talk, but he is still severely mentally and physically disabled. He can only walk short distances and he occasionally uses a wheelchair, as he tires easily, so this is a big challenge for Loyd.”  

Children Today funded an adapted trike for Loyd to help with his rehabilitation after an operation on both his legs in 2016. The trike helped Loyd rebuild his core strength and build up his leg muscles through gentle exercise.  

Helen continues: “In spite of his challenges, Loyd’s incredibly active and loves all kinds of sports. He enjoys playing football and boccia with the Special Olympics and he understands all too well how adapted equipment can help anyone with a disability become more active.  

“I’m so very proud of Loyd He has a such beautiful soul and always wants to try and help others.  

“We’re looking forward helping Loyd take on this challenge. You’ll never walk alone, son!” 

To show your support for Loyd and make a donation visit:

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/h-wildridge.  

Emma Prescott, charity director at Children Today, adds: “Those with a disability are twice as likely to be inactive as able-bodied children, which is why we’ve launched the ‘Wheely Great Challenge’ this year to help disabled children and young adults be more active.  

“We know that getting regular exercise can be more difficult for those with a disability. Access to sporting groups and equipment can be a challenge in itself. So, it’s vital that they have access to their own equipment and get the support they need to stay fit and healthy. 

“The ‘Wheely Great Challenge’ is all about challenging yourself to help others. For some that may be a 10K run or taking on an epic cycling challenge, while for others, it may be something simpler.    

“Loyd has whole-heartedly embraced this ethos. He’s an absolute inspiration, and proof that the ‘Wheely Great Challenge’ really is for everyone regardless of ability. 

“We’d love to see more local people take inspiration from Loyd and take on their very own challenge. You can cycle, roll, push or scoot your challenge. Or if wheels aren’t your thing why not set yourself a running, walking, skipping or even swimming challenge instead? The possibilities are endless!” 

Children Today staff will be joining Loyd for part of his challenge on 13th June at Chester Racecourse to show their support.  

Emma adds: “It’s safe to say that Loyd holds a very special place in our hearts here at Children Today. Anyone who has met him can’t help but be moved by his zest for life and kind-hearted nature. We’re behind you all the way Loyd!” 

About Children Today: 

• Children Today was founded in 1994 and provides children and young people with disabilities up to the age of 25 with specialised equipment to help them enjoy a better quality of life and greater independence.  
• Relying entirely on voluntary donations, Children Today provides grants to buy specialised equipment such as individually adapted electric wheelchairs, walking aids, trikes, specially adapted car seats and more.