To Conquer

Kia ora, my name is Ephraim Gudgeon, 24 years old, proudly born and raised in Hamilton, New Zealand.

Throughout my entire life i have always been physically active. I have represented Waikato at the National Swimming Championship, I have also represented New Zealand at the World Hip Hop Championship. This year my goal was to compete in my first bodybuilding competition. Unfortunately in February 2017 i jumped off a waterfall whilst on holiday with my family resulting in my T12 vertebrae becoming fractured and my spinal cord being damaged. This left me without movement and feeling from my waist down and unable to walk. I spent two months at the Auckland Spinal Unit where i recovered and learned to live life without the use of my legs and in a wheelchair. Although this has helped me, i believe i MUST walk again.

Since returning home i have adjusted to life well and enjoy doing things i once did before my accident such as going to the gym, attending church and spending time with loved ones. However, i need care in the morning when i wake up and at night before i sleep. Things that i once took for granted have now become difficult for me.

I am determined to raise funds to help me receive help, treatment and rehab from countries overseas such as Thailand, the USA and others as New Zealand does not have the required treatment i need. These include but are not limited to Epidural Stimulation and required Stem Cell Therapy.

I know that i will walk again, whether by one way or another it is only a matter of time. I plan to help others who are going through their own trials and by walking again i believe i can help them conquer and come out on the other side too.

I ask for your help in any way, big or small i will be grateful. Thank you to all those who have and continue to support me. My love goes out to you all.