A woman with spina bifida took a zipslide across the Clyde to raise funds for charity.
Ann Rowney, who uses a wheelchair, has undergone around 20 operations in her lifetime to treat the conditions.
Hurtling across the river at speeds of up to 40mph, she and a team of fundraisers collected £15,000 for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Scotland (SBH Scotland).
In addition to her spina bifida, Ann has syringomyelia – a cyst on the spinal cord – and last year was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has since received the all clear for cancer, classing herself as a ‘survivor’.
The zipslide was a particular challenge as the 55-year-old has always needed support with her mobility and wasn’t sure if she’d be able to do the ziplaine.
Ann said: “Despite my disability, I’ve always had a sense of adventure, whether that’s travelling the world or flying a glider plane.
“The zip-slide was so much fun, and I’m thrilled to be able to raise money for such a worthy charity.
“I was first supported by SBH Scotland a couple of years ago when I needed guidance regarding surgery. They are a fantastic cause and I’m forever grateful for the support they provide, not only for me, but my husband David too”
SBH Scotland was formed in 1965 by a group of parents who each had a child with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
Ann added: “In the last 50 years there have been great advancements to improve the lives of those of us living with a disability, but there are still many factors which should be addressed and I think disabled people still face barriers.
“Able-bodied people would not see steps as an obstacle, where in fact it can mean the big difference between being able to join friends or having to stay home.”
Deborah Roe, fundraising director at SBH Scotland, said: “We’re so grateful to Ann and our group of fundraisers for taking the leap of faith in our 50th year.
“Our charity continues to support all those affected by the lifelong, complex disabilities of spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and every year we have to raise £1million to fund the vital services we offer.
“Challenges like this are crucial to us providing services for another 50 years.”
