Ironspine Challenge Raises Research Money

When athlete Paul Stewart broke his back in a snowboarding accident, he thought his life was over, but after months of hard work he taught himself to walk again. Now Paul has set up the Ironspine Challeng, both to inspire others and to raise cash for charities Spinal Research and Wings for Life.

Determined to Walk

In 2008, an ill fated snowboarding trip resulted in the premiership hockey player breaking his back. Paul was skiing in France when an avalanche forced him over the edge of a 200ft cliff.

Paul recalls: “I heard the snap; my back had been so severely broken it severed my spinal chord, causing me to be paralysed from the waist down.”

The injury left him severely disabled and Paul was told by doctors that he would never walk again.  However, determined not to be beaten, Paul worked long and hard and eventually taught himself to walk again, with the aid of two sticks.

Making a Difference

Determined to make a difference after his experience, Paul has decided to set up and put himself through the Ironspine Challenge. The challenge, which began on 6th August, comprises four equally tough elements: a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile cycle, a 26.2 mile walk and a severe cliff-face climb. So far he has already managed to raise £325,000 for charity which will make a huge difference to spinal injury research.

The final part of Paul’s challenge will be to confront the very cliff face where he broke his back.  He says: “I admit I am scared about that but I guess it’s more the fear of failure. It broke me once, I want to win this time.”

You can make a £3 donation via text by sending ‘IRONSPINE’ to 70007