We would like to introduce you to Craig Sears, one of our latest CiaO Grant recipients, whose determination to rebuild his independence after a life-changing spinal cord injury is nothing short of remarkable. In 2020, Craig sustained a complete C5–C6 injury after a car accident, leaving him paralysed from the chest down and with limited arm and hand function. Living in rural Scotland, where steep gradients, uneven ground and long distances can be part of daily life, Craig has faced significant barriers to getting outdoors, exploring nature and staying connected to his community. The CiaO grant has helped fund a lightweight wheelchair and specialist power assist equipment, giving Craig the freedom to navigate the world around him with confidence and independence — and opening the door to opportunities he has long been striving toward.
Before his injury, Craig loved mountain biking, long walks and exploring trails with his friends. After nine months in hospital and rehabilitation, he returned home determined to stay active, but the terrain around him made even short journeys difficult without support. The new equipment — a TriRide T Rocks power chair with MTW power assist, traction control, regenerative braking and long-range batteries — will transform what is possible. With these tools, Craig will be able to reach places that have been out of bounds for years.
He is very keen to take on the challenges of;
- the Collennan Reservoir,
- the long cycle paths stretching to Glasgow and Irvine,
- the nearby coastal routes,
- and the Carrick Hills, where his mum lives.
Even everyday travel around his village will become easier, allowing him to stay visible and connected to his local community, who have followed his journey and learned from his openness about disability and resilience.
Craig’s ambitions reach far beyond mobility. Despite facing new health challenges in late 2025, including severe stomach issues, he remains focused on growth and opportunity. He has aims of studying Environmental Science Management with the Open University, returning to driving, trying wheelchair football, and continuing his new involvement with Regain, a sports charity for people with tetraplegia. He has already begun attending events and connecting with others in that role. Just as importantly, he wants to rejoin his friends on their cycling adventures, not as someone being pushed or assisted, but as an equal participant, able to keep up and share the experience. With the support of the CiaO Foundation, Craig is reclaiming the independence, adventure and community connection that mean so much to him.
“Take every opportunity you can, and just because it’s a challenge doesn’t mean you should shy away from it.”
Craig Sears – CiaO Foundation Grant Recipient
Click the link below to see the video.
