Wernick supports rising powerchair football star George Shippey
Wernick is proud to support young athlete George Shippey in his journey to compete at the highest level of powerchair football. After hearing George’s story from the Essex Community Foundation (ECF), Wernick were pleased to partner with Essex and Southend Sports Charitable Fund to contribute a total of £3,300 towards his training and competition costs.
George has been diagnosed with Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a severe type of MD and often shortens life expectancy. Most people with DMD will reach adulthood; however, they are more likely to die from heart or respiratory failure before or during their 30s. George is experiencing a decline in his upper body muscles and cannot transfer independently. George is also taking part in a drug trial crucial treatment at GOSH in the hope of delaying his condition from progressing so fast.
The powerchair football star is a full-time wheelchair user; recieving daily medication, physio and weekly hydrotherapy. George’s condition impacts his mental health, and he has weekly meetings to support this.
George takes part in a powered wheelchair football team, which has had a profound impact on his mental health and social connections. Playing for two teams, including the Championship League Muscle Warriors Team, shows significant achievement, especially now that he’s been selected for the National Pathway to develop players for the national team. This level of competition boosts George’s self-esteem and fosters a sense of camaraderie among teammates, allowing George to make new friendships.
Despite these hurdles, George remains hopeful of making the England powerchair football team, which would be an incredible milestone.
The funding support was made possible after discussions between Wernick and the ECF, who worked together to reach the target amount needed to cover George’s expenses. With another fundholder stepping in to match Wernick’s contribution, he now has the resources to continue his progress in powerchair football.
This funding has already had an immediate impact. George recently competed in the national Optegra Championship League in Nottingham, playing for Muscle Warriors PFC. George scored the only goal in a match against Leeds PFC, securing a 1-0 victory. His team remained unbeaten in their first nine games, rising above the likes of Manchester United.
When I was approached by the ECF, whom we have partnered with on several fundings, I was blown away by the strength of character displayed not only by George, but his entire family and the sacrifices they have made to give support. I was more than happy to support such a strong individual as George, who, despite the challenges he faces on a day-to-day basis, can rise above and pursue his dream of one day playing for England. We sincerely hope our support goes some way for George to achieve his goals for his club and country!
We wish George and his team the very best of luck.
