Following a successful fundraising lunch in Surbiton in 2022 organised by CiaO, Sean McCallion took delivery of his new Hand E Cycle and demonstrated the bike to those who had kindly helped to raise the funds.
In April 2000, Sean became paralysed after breaking his neck in a snowboarding accident. Unable to move any limbs, Sean’s initial prognosis was that he would need the help of carers for the rest of his life. Though, through his own determination and amazing medical care, he was able to overcome many of the physical and mental challenges, regaining some movement and independence as a wheelchair user. From there, getting back to full time employment, finding love, and starting his lovely family have been much more rewarding challenges.
Sean’s daughters are growing up fast and “are both getting really good on their bikes”. They both inspired their father to get his own specialised cross-country Electric & hand-driven cycle so he could then join them on the local trails near their house in Claygate, Surrey. CiaO helped Sean with this new challenge by providing a Grant to support the money already raised by Sean towards his new handcycle.
Sean’s story is a particular testament to the time, effort, and generosity given by a local community, in supporting The CiaO Foundation to help a neighbour with a challenge. Thank you to everyone who attended the Surbiton Charity Lunch at The French Table which raised a formidable £4600+ for CiaO and, local Grant recipient, Sean McCallion. With a full house of over 50 local attendees and strong support from local businesses providing very generous prizes, this truly was a great example of local people coming together to help a local man meet his challenges.
If you, your company or organisation would like to help other people meet physical and or mental challenges then please connect with CiaO.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Determination and fierce independence will get you so far, but if you are comfortable asking for help and support when you need it you can often achieve even more.”
Sean McCallion – CiaO Grant Recipient
