We’re thrilled to welcome Bethany Handley—prolific poet, writer, editor, and disability activist—as one of the latest recipients of a CiaO Foundation grant. Bethany’s creative voice and advocacy work have touched many, and her resilience since becoming paralysed from the waist down in 2023 has been nothing short of inspiring.
Bethany lives with multiple complex conditions and since her paralysis, she has relied on a heavy NHS Wales wheelchair that caused daily pain, partial shoulder dislocations, and limited her independence. Without access to the voucher scheme available in other parts of the UK, Bethany faced significant challenges to mobility and freedom.
“I don’t have an adequate wheelchair to enable my freedom,” she shared. “It’s hard to put into words what it’s like to spend 12 hours a day in a chair that twists your body and limits your freedom.”
Determined to reclaim her independence, Bethany launched a fundraising campaign to purchase a custom ultra-lightweight titanium wheelchair with a specialised matrx backrest and a Triride power attachment. Thanks to the generosity of supporters—and a CiaO grant—she reached her goal.
“For the first time since becoming paralysed, I have a wheelchair that doesn’t cause me pain. I can finally sit up straight. I can breathe easier,” Bethany said. “This new chair has given me something huge back—independence and quality of life.”
Her new wheelchair will provide much more opportunities. Bethany will be able to travel, reconnect with her writing community, and even drive for the first time since becoming a wheelchair user. “I can’t express how grateful I am. You’ve given me my freedom back.”
“Bethany is such an inspiration that we here at CiaO are proud to support her journey and look forward to seeing her reach new places—on the page, in her activism, and out in the world.”
Nügmais – CiaO Charity Manager
