Although snow curtailed the original event planned for 1st March 2018, International Wheelchair Day was eventually celebrated a week later on 8th March at Gildacre Fields Housing & Care 21 complex in Southwick, Sunderland.
International Wheelchair Day founder, Steve Wilkinson, is a resident at the complex and was involved in organising the event in conjunction with the residents’ social committee and Centre management. They secured sponsorship for participant t-shirts, medals, catering and entertainment from local funeral director, Tony Clarke, Sunderland City Council and Housing & Care 21.
Residents and staff held a parade in the surrounding area as well as wheelchair races when they returned to Gildacre Fields and were joined by children from Southwick Community Primary School, who thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Doris McKnight also came along to present the medals to the children and race winners.
They were also grateful to members of Darlington Video Makers Club who produced a video of the event, which can be seen on this website Promotional Video page.
Spinal Nepal held their 7th celebration of International Wheelchair Day on Friday 2nd March at Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu.
International Wheelchair Day 