Dunshaughlin man takes on 380km challenge to raise funds for Spinal Injuries Ireland

Dunshaughlin man and disability advocate Jack Kavanagh will take on an incredible challenge next week when he cycles the 380km Danube Cycling trail using an adaptive hand cycle.

Along with his father Peter, the duo will join a group of adaptive cyclists taking on the iconic cycle trail from Passau, Germany through Vienna, Austria and on to Bratislava, Slovakia, covering a distance of 380km. They will cover an average of 80km a day over five days while camping along the route.

For Jack, this adventure isn't just a personal challenge, it is a also a way to raise funds for Spinal Injuries Ireland, a charity that provides life-changing support to people and families affected by spinal cord injury.

Pharmacist Jack is one of the country's most recognised disability advocates and is also a motivational speaker and life coach.

He was on holiday with friends in Portugal in 2012 when he became paralysed from the shoulders down after suffering injuries in a freak swimming accident.

Jack was enjoying the water and diving into the waves all day, but on the last dive he hit a hidden sandbank and snapped his neck. His injuries resulted in him being quadriplegic and having to learn to do everything from scratch again.

Jack discovered his passion for hand cycling during a trip to Spain a number of years ago and it has grown from there.

"I love being outside, I love being on the bike, it's one of the few places where I can feel I can physically push myself given my injury," said Jack.

Earlier this year he covered 100km on his hand cycle in a day and now is ready to push himself even further with his next challenge.

Over the past few months Jack has been busy training for his Danube trail challenge and sets off next Tuesday to begin the adventure.

"As a quadriplegic with just 15 per cent muscle function, every kilometre will be a test of endurance and determination. But this adventure isn’t just a personal challenge, it’s also a way to raise vital funds for Spinal Injuries Ireland, a charity that provides life-changing support to people and families affected by spinal cord injury.

"Every donation will help ensure that others living with spinal injuries can access the resources, community, and support they need to rebuild their lives and achieve their own goals, just as I’ve been able to prepare for this journey.

"Every contribution, big or small, will push me closer to the finish line and help Spinal Injuries Ireland continue their incredible work."

Jack has set up an idonate page and has so far raised €6,600 of his €10,000 target. He has expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported him so far saying "together, we can turn this challenge into something truly meaningful."

To make a donation to Jack's idonate page click here