Yianni Andrews

Hi, I’m Maria. In January of this year (2023) my brother had a mountain biking accident that resulted in life changing injuries, leaving him tetraplegic. He needs help. It is difficult to ask people for financial support but there are some situations in life when it becomes necessary and this is one.

Let me tell you about my little brother… He’s funny -- like, really funny -- kind, thoughtful, annoying (as I said, he’s my little brother), determined and inspirational. Throughout his life, Yianni has pushed himself into unknown territory and charted a new course. Yianni is an adventurer, a traveller, and a conservationist. He is a much loved partner to Katie; son to my parents; brother to me; uncle to my children and a great friend to many, who is still very much on his journey. Whilst we hope for the supernatural aid that is often delivered to people in similar situations, real life goes on. He’s spent 7 months in hospital and is now living in a care home in Worthing while we look for a permanent home.

Despite the accident, Yianni's spirit, positivity and passion to help others has never faded. But, unfortunately, adaptations that enable freedom and comfort at home, wheelchairs that enable roaming across varied terrain and specialist exercise equipment to keep him fit and healthy, are all incredibly expensive. This is why we are fundraising and we hope that, through your donations, Yianni can achieve a decent quality of life, face fewer barriers, continue to work in nature conservation and keep inspiring others. Please help us by contributing to his cause.

Yianni used to run, cycle, jump out of planes -- you name it. I, on the other hand, well let’s say life is busy. He would often tell me off for not looking after myself properly. Immediately after the accident, whilst in intensive care, I remember the doctor telling me how strong his diaphragm was and how surprised they were that he would be able to breathe on his own once they took the tube out. They said it was because he was so fit. Yianni can’t do what he loved so I’m going to do it for him. I’m planning to run the 10k in Worthing on 22nd October 2023. The run is along the seafront so Yianni will be able to come and support me from his care home. If you know Yianni, you will know that he’s told me that the 10k is too easy and I should push myself for a half marathon but I’m not so sure.

Yianni's fund will only be used specifically for equipment and services that increase his level of independence.

Any excess funds raised that are not used for this express purpose will be donated to a spinal cord injury charity, so you can be confident that, if you donate your money, it will be going to a worthy cause.

Please donate whatever you can.