POWER SOCCER WHEELCHAIR
Donation protected
Thank you time and for your consideration of this request. Let me begin by telling you a little bit about myself. My name is Chelsea and I'm 26 years old I was born in Houston Tx. the youngest of two children. Being born 4 months premature, I was later diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. It affects my ability to control my movements in the way that I want. For most of my life I have used a wheelchair to get around. Having limited use of my arms, I rely on a power wheelchair. Growing up in a family of four I spent many years attending the sporting events of my brother and cousins . Regardless of the sport it seems at one time or another they participated. From Softball to Football to Baseball, we were there as a family cheering them on. I always remember being excited for them but at the same time there was always a part of me that thought, “what if?” What if, things were different and I could be on the field. What if, it was me that had the pressure of making a great shot, or pitch or kick? There was no need to dwell on it because it just seemed like one of those things that just wasn’t meant to be.
Six Years ago all that changed. I was introduced by an individual from Texas Childerns hospital about a sport designed specifically for people in power chairs that had been played in other parts of the country and the world. The sport is called Power Soccer and is played as an indoor game on a basketball court. There are four players for each team on the court at a time and the rules closely follow those of outdoor soccer. We have guards mounted to the front of our chairs that we use to “kick” the ball. I didn’t know what to make of this sport at first but after one game I was hooked. This was finally my outlet to be competitive, push myself to improve and be a member of a team. The impact on my personality and growth as an individual has been driven in no small way by this sport and my participation in it. As with most individuals I compete with, many of us had spent countless evenings in front of the TV or playing video games as there weren’t many other alternatives. compete. This is where I need your help. To remain competitive, it has become necessary to use equipment that levels the playing field. The chair i'm needed is a Strike Force chair which is 8,000. So any sponsors or donations would be greatly appreciated!!!
Organizer
Chelsea Martinez
Organizer
Anahuac, TX