For more than 43 years, since contracting polio in America on his 17th birthday, John Prestwich has been totally paralysed below his chin and entirely dependent on a ventilator to keep him alive. As if that wasnt enough, he has also been unable to move himself independently from A to B – without help he is literally rooted to the spot. But sometime this year he will, hopefully, achieve his ambition to at last become independently mobile. Because of advances in technology and the increased capacity of battery power, a prototype motorised chair/bed is being developed which will give John the means of mobility he is so desperate to have. It would also be a tremendous help to his wife Maggie, who for all these years has been pushing and shoving John and all his respiratory equipment around – a total weight of 31 stone! Surprisingly enough, if John was less disabled, he would have been supplied with a motorised wheelchair, but it would seem that no provision is made for someone with such an extensive disability.
Most of the research and development so far has been done by John and Maggies good friend Jarlath Pattinson (who also lives in Scatterdells Lane). Jarlath has also taken it upon himself to try to raise the necessary funds for the project. If there is anyone who would like more details, or who feels that they would like to make a contribution – however small (or large!), do get in touch with Jarlath on 01923 265878.
Thank you!