all out to inspire the disabled

My name is Leslie Broadman. 40 year old male of Ngati Kahungunu, Ngai Tahu &Tuwharetoa descent.Currently living in Hamilton,with a recurring shoulder injury which I am dealing with and trying to find and hold down full time employment. However this injury is not why I am writing to you.....

For 35 years I have had a fantastic life with its ups and downs, represented Hawkes Bay and New Zealand in softball at aged group and secondary school level and basically living life to the fullest. However 5 years ago- April 2010 to be exact changed my life forever...

Since then and up to 3 months ago I have had 3 strokes and 13 mini strokes that I am aware of.. These were caused by a high platelet blood condition which I have learnt to live with and dealing with every day .....

Some people give up, some fall into depression and some try to over come and conquer, they see it as a hurdle, a little glitch on their journey through life.....

I have come to you as a person who has fought depression, a Maori male trying to break down the barriers of giving up and as a person who hopes to show anyone who is willing to open their hearts and awareness to this condition that affects people worldwide......

So I come to you with a proposal that would not only benefit myself but others with my condition and those with any disability, trying to gain any sort of employment but can not due to their illness, disability and/or condition......

I am in the process of organising an event that will see me row the distance between NZ & Australia on a rowing machine on my home beach in the Hawkes Bay.. I invisage this monumental task will take me 60 days to complete. With a carnival type atmosphere being at the start of my journey and the day I complete my mission. This is where arts and crafts, food stall, and entertainment of all cultures can come together and help me give something back.

I am aiming for 15th March 2016 and finishing May 2016..

Bringing it back home I hope to involve my family, friends and community. My question to you is.. Can your organisation assist me in any way??

Please note, this funding will initially be for me to catch up my bills having been unable to get or hod fulltime employment. extra will be donated to my choice of charity which i will be happy to show statements for at the time. I will be fully transparent with all funds donated. regards,

Les broadman