JOSH HICKINBOTTOM
Regaining independence and a route back into sport and work have been motivating Josh since his teamed up with the Foundation.
“I came out of hospital the week before Christmas 2022 and started at the Centre in the first week in January, so it all worked really well,” he says. “It’s the way I like to do things – I find a way and I go for it.
“Since I started, the staff have taught me everything. I got my independence, started driving again and I came on in a short amount of time.”
From conversations at the Centre, Josh was introduced to a wheelchair racing club in Coventry where a number of the members will be chasing places in the 2024 Paralympics and he started training there twice a week alongside regular gym visits and extra sessions at a track closer to his Staffordshire home.
“Having some independence was the biggest step because I hate relying on people,” he says. “Getting back into sport has been a big part of it too because it’s hard when you haven’t got anything to focus on. I train hard but I enjoy that commitment.
“Now I’m looking at starting a business too. I worked as a plasterer and I’ve done up a few houses before, but I want to get back into work. I want to be busy, I’m not one for waiting around a lot.”
“Getting back into sport has been a big part of it because it’s hard when you haven’t got anything to focus on. I train hard but I enjoy that commitment.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Help Matt reach his goal by adding to his fundraising here:
Sponsorship opportunities to attach a brand to his marathon challenge are also available. Email fundraising@hambo.co.uk for details.