Support for Jo Beverland - New Zealand Para Waka Ama Paddler

As some of our Waka Ama whānau may be aware, Jo Beverland the steerer of our New Zealand Para Waka Ama team seriously damaged her previous spinal injury while competing in the V1 at the World Distance Championships in Mooloolaba last month.

Jo was taken to hospital in Brisbane directly from her V1 race and spent 3 weeks there receiving treatment. Last week, Jo flew from Brisbane direct to Christchurch to the Burwood Spinal Unit where she will undergo further treatment and rehab. Jo currently has no use of her legs but is confident that with the expert assistance at the spinal unit and rehab she will be able to walk again.

Christchurch is a long way from Jo's whānau and support network. Her husband (Ray) has flown to Christchurch to support Jo through her rehab. But with both Jo and Ray not working, there are significant costs such as travel, accommodation, as well as general day to day costs that Jo and her whānau could use assistance with.

Waka Ama New Zealand has established this fundraising page to raise awareness of Jo's injury and call on any of our extended waka ama whānau who may be in a position to assist financially in a small way.

As always, Jo is a fighter and is maintaining her amazing positive attitude despite her situation. Please help us as we tautoko her during this long road to recover.

Kia kaha Jo!