DARTMOUTH, N.S.—Construction supply company Bird Stairs is matching all donations up to $6,000 toward the purchase of a new wheelchair for Austin MacLellan, a 21-year-old Fredericton, N.S. athlete, who will be competing at the Junior Worlds with the Canadian Men’s U23 basketball team this fall.
As a child, MacLellan was diagnosed with two different neuromuscular diseases that required multiple surgeries. Despite treatment, the diseases progressively impaired his ability to walk and his muscular functions. Now, MacLellan has earned a spot on the Canadian Men’s U23 Basketball Team and will be competing on the world stage in Thailand. MacLellan needs a new wheelchair that fits properly to compete.
After learning about Bird Stairs’ contribution, Nashwaaksis Lions Club agreed to also donate $5,000. The Lions Club collects funds from TV Bingo. The GoFundMe is set to meet the goal of $6,000 remaining to cover the cost ($17,144.50) of the specialized chair.
“I am really looking forward to the Junior Worlds this fall,” said MacLellan, in a statement. “Unfortunately, my chair broke and cannot be fixed, and I am currently using an old, heavier chair. Just as a runner needs proper fitting shoes, I need a chair that is really dialed in to my body. Using a chair that fits will allow me to protect my health and reduce the risk of injury to my joints. It means a lot to have so much support to help me achieve my best.”
The Go Fund Me page can be found .
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