Tim targets Mt Snowdon three years after setback

Double amputee Tim Tomkinson has set his sights on climbing Mount Snowdon after a bit of help from Blesma.

Earlier this year, with the Limb Centres closed in the height of the Covid pandemic, Tim experienced difficulties with his prosthetics that left him unable to walk. After a call to his Support Officer, the Association was able to provide Tim with a lightweight wheelchair.

Almost five months later, when Tim was finally seen by his local Limb Centre, he was able to use his prosthetics once again. To thank the Association for its vital support, Tim is now planning to scale the highest mountain in Wales; a goal he set himself after he had to cut
short a previous climb due to severe pain.

“It’s been my aim since 2017, but I’ve been hampered by 10 operations since then,” said the 49 year old, whose left leg was amputated in 2015, followed by his right leg in 2019.

"During the first lockdown, I spent most of the time using the wheelchair, but after I was seen by Oxford Limb Centre, I started hiking the very next day.”

Since then, Tim has been putting in the hours, training hard for the attempt. He has been hiking across a range of terrain in Bradgate Park, Leicestershire, and using a hand cycle that was donated by a fellow Blesma Member.

“I have friends who are ex-military personnel and some who are mountain instructors, so they are helping me get fit enough to attempt the climb,”

“I’ve never walked on rough terrain with two prosthetics, so it’s hard on my legs, but they’ve had me scrambling over rocks and walking up steep hills. It’s been good for me. It feels good to get out of the house, and get some fresh air and exercise. I haven’t got a date for the challenge yet, but I’m hoping it will take place in the Spring.”