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Sponsored Challenge of a Lifetime! While most of us reach our limits by taking part in a 5 mile sponsored run or swim, this is certainly not the case when Michael sets himself a challenge. In September, Michael Neil Orodje is going to take part in a sponsored 14-day event that will involve a mountain trek, 200 km cycle ride, white-water rafting, scuba diving and a 3-mile swim, all of which will take place in the depths of Borneo. It goes without saying that most of us wouldn’t even contemplate this; however, if you also take into account the fact that Michael is blind in one eye, has a damaged nerve in his back and left knee and can’t even swim (yet!), this challenge takes on a whole new meaning. Although he is still learning to swim, he does not see it as a big obstacle, just another hurdle to cross, he says” I do not believe in the words I can’t; only I don’t want too, there are a lot more people who need my help and God has given me the strength to help those who need help”. Michael Neil Orodje has already started training, which includes working out in the gym 4 times a week and he has also begun one-to-one swimming lessons. This is not the first time that Michael has become involved in raising money for charities – his other accomplishments have included abseiling off a 180 ft building and completing a few army assault courses rally racing and bungee jumping. He also spends Christmas Days and boxing days at the Salvation Army helping to give the homeless dinner. Michael is hoping to raise over £2,500 in sponsorship from businesses, friends and family. The charity, John Grooms, will use the money raised to care for people with disabilities. Projects include a brain injury centre and wheelchair-accessible housing. Watch this space to see if Michael survives the challenge! Local’s
river deep, mountain high challenge
The intrepid explorer is to undertake the Borneo Challenge for national Christian based disability charity, John Grooms. The challenge consists of Scuba diving in the Pacific, white water rafting, Trekking Mount Kinabalu and cycling the Crocker Range. As well as preparing himself physically for the challenge, Michael is also racing to recruit area businesses and residents to sponsors him as he plans to raise over £2,500 for John Grooms. The money Michael raises will help John Grooms to provide a variety of care services for people with disabilities, from a specialist Brain Injury Centre to specialist wheelchair accessible housing. The charity helps thousands of disabled people maximise their independence at home, at work and in their leisure time and they are committed to changing people’s perception of disability. If anyone is interested in sponsoring Michael, please contact Paul Kwatia on 020 7452 2115. The John Grooms Borneo Challenge takes place in September, and there are also still places available. If you are interested in attending the challenge and would be willing to raise a minimum of £2, 500 for John Grooms, then please contact Paul Kwatia on 020 7452 2115. To
interview Micheal or for further information on John Grooms, please contact
Vicky Hardman at John Grooms on 020 7452 2100 or vhardman@johngrooms.org.uk
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