Law Firm Help ‘Out On A Limb’ Boost Its Fundraising Pot

A group of amputees showed their steely determination to raise money for a charity close to their hearts in a 16.3-mile walk from Bradford to Keighley, sponsored by law firm Irwin Mitchell.

The family and friends of 38 people who have had limbs amputated due to injury or illness joined forces for the Airedale and Bradford ‘Out On A Limb’ sponsored walk, which began at Bradford Royal Infirmary and ended at The Steeton Hall Hotel eight hours later.

The intrepid fundraising team, who are all at different stages of their rehabilitation, raised more than £4,000 with help from the personal injury team at Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office, who covered the cost of running the trek.

Sarah Coles, who specialises in cases involving people who have suffered injuries as a result of clinical negligence, said: “Out On A Limb is fantastic charity which I know many of our clients at Irwin Mitchell receive valuable help and support from in what is often the most difficult part of their lives as they come to terms with the effect major surgery has had on their lives.

“We helped fund the cost of a minibus and printed posters and sponsorship forms to help the event get underway but we are in awe at the way everyone encouraged each other around the route and were determined to complete the course and raise as much as possible.”

The money raised will enable the charity to provide specialist equipment, such as temporary ramps, to amputees recently discharged from hospital as well as information and practical help getting their life back on track following an amputation.

The event was also supported by Keighley Town Council, The Steeton Hall Hotel, The Fishermans at Bingley, The Marquis of Granby at Riddlesden and The White Lion at Kildwick.

David Rushworth, chairman of the charity, added: “Despite the terrible rain we were impressed by the dedication and fundraising spirit of everyone who took part. More than 20 people walked the whole 16.3 miles with others in wheelchairs being pushed by relatives or carers. It was a great atmosphere and we really enjoyed stopping off at three pubs along the way to recharge our batteries.

“It was really inspiring to see so many people challenge themselves, particularly one amputee who was fitted with her prosthetic leg just a few months ago but walked almost the whole route. An amputee who was recently discharged from the rehabilitation unit and Bradford Royal Infirmary also took part with his daughter and three grandchildren.

“We are really grateful to generous sponsors like Irwin Mitchell and those who helped boost our fundraising pot because without their support we wouldn’t be able to continue the life-changing work we do.”