An Irishman was told he had just a 5% chance of walking again embarks on charity trek across US.
Fergus Farrell was given a 5% chance that he would walk again after a serious spinal injury and is setting out on a 4,500km charity trek across the United States.
Over 75 consecutive days Farrell will cover the equivalent of a marathon and a half each day.
Farrell is in partnership with Spinal Injuries Ireland and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation for his challenging walk.
Spinal Injuries Ireland is refered to as the only organisation in Ireland that is dedicated to "solely to supporting people living with a spinal cord injury and their families."
"Through specialist peer support, advocacy, community services, education, and practical assistance, we help individuals rebuild their lives, achieve greater independence, and navigate the challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. Our work creates real and lasting change, empowering people and their families while advocating for a more inclusive and accessible Ireland," a statement provided on the official website for 'Fergus Walks'.
The Irishman aims to raise €1 million for spinal injury care across his 75 day challenge.
According to BreakingNews, before Farrell took his first steps he was cheered on by family and friends with a number of good luck messages read out.
President Catherine Connolly gave him a good luck message which read: “Your charity walk is a remarkable undertaking that reflects exceptional determination, commitment and strength. By setting out on this journey, you are not only challenging yourself physically over an immense distance but also drawing public attention to spinal cord injury and to the ongoing needs of individuals and families who are affected by injuries of this kind."
Speaking on his decision to embark on this trek, Farrell said according to reports: "I walk across America for a simple reason, because I can. There are so many people out there who because of illness, disease, age, physical or mental capabilities that can’t. But I can, and I want to, and I hope that the community can follow me on this journey every step of the way.”
For more information, you can visit the official website 'Fergus Walks'.
