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Last week the Shackleton Society, a pupil-led society celebrating exploration and endurance, hosted an inspiring and insightful talk with campaigner and fundraiser Claire Lomas MBE.

Former event rider Claire was paralysed from the chest down after a horse riding accident in 2007. Refusing to let it get the better of her, she explained the battle to find new challenges, including raising money for spinal research charities.

She became the first person to complete the London Marathon in a ReWalk bionic suit in 2012, taking 17 days to reach the finish line in an incredible feat of endurance, and has since raised over £825,000 for the Nicholls Spinal Research Foundation. Claire has also completed a number of marathons, walks, and other sports including skiing, motorbiking and flying light aircraft.

Inspired by Claire’s story, the Shackleton Society has similarly chosen to partner with the Nicholls Spinal Research Foundation for this year’s Shackleton Challenge. At the start of May half term, pupils from the society will aim to complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, travelling 27 miles in under 12 hours, and raising money for the NSIF via a JustGiving page.

The society would like to thank Claire for visiting us, and for telling her incredible story. Wish us luck for our fundraising efforts!