Overcoming the odds is always inspirational, and as an NDIS provider on the Gold Coast, we are always thrilled to read about people who fought back when life dealt them a rough hand. Rafi Salaiman is a great example and has become an ambassador for Borparan Charitable Trust, a charity that gave him his start in the world of sports for disabled athletes.
National Children’s Charity
Initially set up in 2009, the charity is designed to work with children and young people in the UK who experience disadvantages because of life-limiting conditions, disability, or extreme poverty. Their aim is to provide specialist items that will help the children, and that includes the running frame for Rafi that was provided for him by the charity.
Life Changing Condition
Until the age of 12, Rafi Salaiman was a healthy, happy youngster, but sadly he experienced a stroke which meant he was hospitalised for months because it caused a brain haemorrhage with devastating symptoms. His condition was severe, and he had to learn how to speak and walk again. This has left him with some issues with his movement, but he wanted to be able to access sports which he loved. His first sport was the running frame which the charity provided, and he has quickly become something of a record-breaking champion.
Bright Star Ball
At the European Para Athletic Championships, he took gold which is a very big achievement. And it is credited to the youngster’s determination and grit to succeed. It’s also opened many doorways for him, and he has enjoyed travelling to many countries to take part in competitions. The charity loves to follow the progress of all of the children. It works with and each year throws the Boparan Charitable Trust Bright Star Ball. The glittering event takes place in London, and this year Rafi was among those honoured at the evening do you are.
Ambassador Status
Rafi is very grateful to the charity for their support and has decided to become an ambassador to help raise the profile of the charity and support the invaluable work that they do. Speaking about the charity, he said. “Thank you to the Boparan Trust for their support of my first frame runner and also for their heartfelt reception at the Bright Star Ball. The charity makes a massive difference to so many lives across the UK. I would urge everyone to learn more about the Trust and to get behind the charity.”
The charity Is equally delighted to have the youngster on board as an ambassador for them, and they said, “It is truly inspiring to have seen the journey of Rafi and his amazing spirit for sport and life. We cannot wait to work with him further to help other young people.”
We would like to wish Rafi all the success in his career at upcoming events and for many years to come.