Inspirational story of quadriplegic Teessider who rides horses and plays football – Gazette Live

Matthew Garner is quadriplegic, suffers from cerebral palsy and needs a wheelchair to get around - but he doesnt let the details stop him.

The incredible 20-year-old from Billingham is determined to make the most of life, and enjoys horseriding, wheelchair football, gym visits and even hosts a weekly slot on hospital radio.

And despite problems with his hands which can affect his grip, he also plays the drums in a rhythm band performing at fair and parades across the North-east.

These extra-curricular activities slot around a college course, as well as the regular treatments he receives from a charity close to his heart.

Matthew is sharing his inspirational story in a bid to raise awareness of this childrens charity which has been helping him grow in confidence and maintain his strength since 2009.

Heel and Toes delivers conductive therapy free of charge for hundreds of children with cerebral palsy from across the region. Matthew goes twice a week for treatments at their centre in Pelton near Chester-le-Street.

His dad Russ, 53, a production manager, said: They have been absolutely brilliant.

The treatment that he gets there has kept him right. Hes had treatment from the NHS but its nothing compared to what the charity has offered him.

Matthew and his family are now backing the charitys Footprints Appeal to raise 270,000 to transform a derelict building as a new base to provide more life-changing therapy for families.

They are among those who will be supporting the Heel and Toe Onesie Walk around Saltwell Park, Gateshead on Bank Holiday Monday May 1.

Gillian, 51, a staff nurse, said: The biggest difference the therapy has made is that Matthew now has the upper body control and confidence he needs to balance in his wheelchair.

Its also been great for developing his fine manipulation skills, his hands have some deformities, but because of the therapy he can do things like hold his drumsticks.

You have to be optimistic and push all the time. We know that Matthew wont get any better but with the support of Heel and Toe we can work together to prevent any further deterioration of his condition.

Matthew was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was three months old.

He was born five weeks premature by emergency caesarean after his mum Gillian suffered placenta abruption and he had to be resuscitated at birth.

Life has thrown many complications at him - he recently broke his arm playing football after his wheelchair malfunctioned - and he continues to suffer from health problems.

But he maintains a positive attitude and is looking to the future with anticipation.

Matthew was hoping to become a fireman when he left Abbey Hill Technology College, but due to his condition this wasnt a possibility. But he now attends Stockton Riverside College and is completing an employability course, which includes English and maths subjects.

When he finishes the course in a years time, he hopes to land himself a job.

He said: Id still like to do something to do with the fire brigade.

I did a work placement at the headquarters in Hartlepool and would really like to go back.

Matthew is keen to stay active, and enjoys a busy schedule of activities during the week.

Russ said: We go to Billingham Forum at least once a week where Matthew uses a special exercise bike and hes been going horseriding every Saturday morning at The Unicorn Centre for the past 15 years.

He also goes to wheelchair football on a Wednesday.

To support the Heel and Toes appeal call fundraising executive Amanda Tweedy on 0191 386 8606, email Amanda.tweedy@heelandtoe.org.uk or visit http://www.heelandtoe.org.uk

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Inspirational story of quadriplegic Teessider who rides horses and plays football - Gazette Live