Recognise the name? Last year David Ralph took on the London to Paris Cycle covering over 300km in three days on a handcycle for Aspire. He raised over £1,200 “as a thank you” to Aspire for helping him purchase a lightweight wheelchair.

Just under a year later his son, David Ralph (junior), is taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon for Aspire. He has raised over £1,100 so far and aims to hit £2,000 by the end of the month! David says: “It is a lifetime achievement that I have always wanted to do but being able to do it for Aspire who I have seen transform my dad is the best bit.”

David’s dad had many major spinal operations which have left him less mobile and unable to work. With a NHS manual wheelchair he found it hard to get around and his independence suffered because of it. David explains that there were times when his dad just had “no drive to achieve anything at all” and his family found it hard to witness.

David was staying at Stanmore Spinal Centre when he was introduced to Aspire. He was successful in applying for an Aspire Grant which helped him buy a light-weight wheelchair. David’s dad was able to get out and about again. He started playing with the London Wheelchair Rugby Club at Aspire Leisure Centre in North London and took on the 300km from London to Paris in a hand cycle in aid of Aspire.

“He has his spark back”, David says. “When he discovered Aspire his attitude and mentality completely changed. He became driven, like he had a goal again. From participating in wheelchair rugby twice a week to then wanting to complete London to Paris in a hand cycle, which he did!"

- David Ralph Snr setting off on the London to Paris Cycle for Aspire & Back Up

“My Dad had so much fun and achieved so much with Aspire's help. It has given him something to aim for and has helped him achieve things he never dreamed of. It has made such a difference in the family home for my mum and my two brothers. I can't thank Aspire enough.”

Sponsor David

London Marathon

How we help