Charity Fund Powerchair

A pensioner from Great Abington and who lives with severely restricted mobility, has regained independence thanks to a life-changing, state-of-the-art Balder powered wheelchair donated by several local and military charities.

 

Sonia Baker, 85 now owns a F290 Balder electric wheelchair manufactured in Scandinavia by Etac thanks to donations from several charities. The fundraising was tirelessly co-ordinated by Stephen Coleman, Sonia’s Divisional Caseworker from SSAFA – the UK’s oldest national military charity that supports current serving, veterans and the families of both. SSAFA donated substantially to Sonia’s cause alongside the Royal Marine Association, Royal Naval Benevolent Trust, Royal British Legion and a local charity ‘Wheel’s for Martin’s Friends’.

Sonia has been unable to sit in a standard postural position due to severe pain from degraded hips and could only achieve relief by standing up for extended periods of time. This unsustainable situation was affecting Sonia both day and night which led to her husband seeking help – regarding appropriate equipment and the possibility of charitable funds as his wife qualified for assistance. As an ex-serviceman, Anthony contacted the Royal Marine Association, which began the path towards Sonia’s ownership of an electric wheelchair.

Sonia comments: “I am so grateful to all concerned who have helped me own this life-changing Balder powered wheelchair.”