Our CEM, Tom Elliott joined over 200 children and adults last Saturday as he took part in the annual Bike for Bobath event to raise funds for people with cerebral palsy. The sponsored cycle ran from the Riverside Museum, Glasgow to Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch and follows the National Cycle Route No 7.
Bobath Scotland was founded in 1995 by a group of parents who fundraised and campaigned tirelessly to bring the service to Scotland – before this point they had been forced to make the journey to London so their children could access Bobath treatment.
Over 700 children from the length and breadth of Scotland have attended Bobath Scotland’s Therapy Centre in Glasgow since their inception 18 years ago. During their 18th Birthday celebrations this year, the CP Scotland players visited Bobath Scotland including goalkeeper, Scott Martin who credits his international success to the therapy that he received over the last fourteen years while he attended the centre. Martin said “Without the fantastic therapy l have received at Bobath over the years, l would not be playing international football. I didn’t appreciate the full extent of the benefit Bobath physios had on my quality of life until recently.”
Martin added, “I held on to my dream of playing football for years and focused on it with Bobath who helped me improve the key attributes required by a goalkeeper – standing upright, balance and speed bursts to name a few.” Scott and his team mates helped to promote the Bike for Bobath event.
Elliott enjoyed the build up to the start of the event as Radio Lollipop geared up the participants ready for the countdown at 11am. One of the first Bobath Scotland recipients, Marion Burns was invited to start the event by releasing balloons in the air.
The participants, including Elliott cycled off and followed the well stewarded route making their way to Balloch. Elliott finished the cycle with a great time; making it within the first top ten to cross the finish line and was presented his certificate by the Stormtroopers.
We caught up with Elliott this week and he commented “what a great, well organised event Bike for Bobath was, a lovely atmosphere and everyone was so friendly. I am pleased to supporting this wonderful charity and be part of such a successful event.”
Well done Tom!
To find out more about Bobath Scotland, please visit their website http://www.bobathscotland.org.uk/