The Times Christmas Appeal 2010

SIA was delighted to be chosen as one of the beneficaries of The Times' Christmas Appeal 2010. The Times' ran a number of stories on SIA and our sister charity Spinal Injuries Scotland (SIS) throughout Christmas 2010, which you can read by clicking on the links below.

Melanie Reid, The Times' journalist who broke her back and neck in a horse riding accident in April - They're on the frontline of human despair

Matt Hampson, injured in a rugby training exercise with the England under 21's - Living proof: do not see a victim, look instead at an inspiration.

Tim Rushby-Smith, pays tribute to the mentor who helped him rebuild his life - How I learnt to live again

Emily Clacy shares her experience of being a spinal cord injured mother - She knows how to climb up on my wheelchair and get me to do things.

Steve Brown talks about wheelchair rugby and the work of SIA - I asked if I would die. The doctor said he didn't know.

Jane Sowerby, member of the British Disabled Ski team - Downhill thrill brings change in attitude

Sarah Orr talks about the work of Spinal Injuries Scotland (SIS) - Patients given hope, thanks to Spinal Injuries Association volunteers

Jackie Bailey has been supporting spinal cord injured patients at Stoke Mandeville Hospital since the 1980's - It's hard for new patients to remain hopeful.

Jamie Rhind SIA's Community Peer Support Officer in the North West - Inspiring by example after the diving accident that changed his life

The newspaper featured stories on SIA, SIS, and two other charities during late November to early January and the appeal raised in excess of £180,000 for the Association, as well as helping to raise its profile and an awareness of its work. 

Paul Smith, SIA’s Executive Director said:

“We were honoured to be chosen as one the beneficiaries of The Times Christmas Appeal. This was such a fantastic opportunity for SIA to raise awareness of the work we do and to secure funds to continue providing and developing services to help spinal cord injured people and their families rebuild their lives after paralysis.”

We are delighted to say that the first £35,250 raised through the appeal was generously match funded by The City of London's City Bridge Trust, the next £20,000 by Pannones LLP and the next £14,000 by Active Assistance.