Community Link Foundation helps make Elaine’s Christmas wish come true

Community Link Foundation has helped transform the life of a woman with cerebral palsy, by funding a specialist powered wheelchair that her family say has given her the “best ever Christmas present” – and much more besides.

When Elaine Donn’s new wheelchair was delivered, the impact was immediate. Her family shared an emotional message describing just how much the support meant after a difficult year:

“Community Link Foundation has made Elaine’s life. We have never seen her as happy as the day her new wheelchair was delivered.

“In the pictures she is wearing a Christmas jumper; the reason she is in that jumper is because she said that Community Link Foundation has given her the best ever Christmas present.

“She then said ‘actually, no, the best ever Christmas presents.’ When I asked why presents she said ‘Well, firstly the chair but also all the things that the chair will give me, like more independence and more self esteem. They’re like presents too.”

Elaine, who lives in Southport, spends all day in a wheelchair, and the equipment she previously relied on left her uncomfortable, in pain and dependent on others to meet her basic needs. Because the chair was extremely heavy, her family struggled to push it, meaning outings were limited and Elaine was often forced to go to bed as early as 6pm due to backache caused by remaining in the same position for long periods.

Earlier this year, Elaine also experienced the devastating loss of her mum, which had a significant impact on her emotional wellbeing. Her family told Community Link Foundation that the hope of receiving a new, fit-for-purpose wheelchair was all Elaine had to look forward to during an incredibly turbulent time.

Following assessment by a specialist, a Salsa Mini powered wheelchair was identified as the most suitable option for Elaine’s complex needs. The chair includes a powered tilt function, allowing Elaine to independently adjust her position every 20 minutes, improving pressure care and reducing pain without relying on others. It also has a rise function, enabling Elaine to speak to people at eye level and independently access cupboards and higher shelves – changes that have had a profound impact on her confidence, dignity and mental health.

Elaine had already been able to save some money towards the wheelchair but was left with a significant shortfall. Community Link Foundation was pleased to award a grant towards the remaining cost, helping ensure Elaine could receive the equipment she urgently needed.

Elaine’s family said the support had made a lasting difference:

“It was so heartwarming and emotional to see Elaine so so so happy after a turbulent year and that is largely due to your wonderful support. We cannot thank you enough for what you have done for Elaine. You have changed her life for the absolute better.”

Chairman of Community Link Foundation, Enda Rylands, said the grant highlighted the importance of providing practical, targeted support:

“This grant is about far more than equipment. It’s about giving Elaine comfort, independence and dignity, particularly after such a challenging year. Knowing she can manage her own pressure care, stay out longer and feel more confident in everyday life shows exactly why this type of funding matters.”

Grants like this are only possible thanks to the generosity of Community Link Foundation’s supporters and sponsors, as well as those who play the Community Link Foundation Lottery each month. The continued support enables the charity to fund vital equipment and projects that make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives across the community.