Quinte West mayor Jim Harrison presents a cheque to Wheelchair of Hope Foundation founder John Cairns at City Hall on Monday September 19, 2016. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
He has conquered Mount Kilimanjaro and now he’s hoping to move more mountains by bringing mobility to the people of Tanzania.
“I beat so many odds, I’m here for a reason, I refuse to give in and I refuse to give up,” said John Cairns recalling his recent summit to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Voice of Victory and founder of the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation, who is also a double amputee stood before Quinte West council Monday night to share his experiences climbing Mount Kili in hopes of inspiring others. Cairns lost both his right arm and leg during a serious workplace accident in 1992.
“It’s still very surreal,” Cairns admitted. “It’s very humbling. I celebrate the award with all those who are a part of my life. I share the award with all of you.”
The climb raised $7,000 for the Wheelchair of Hope Foundation, $3,000 shy of his $10,000 goal. Mayor Jim Harrison presented a $250 cheque from himself and his wife to Cairns for the Foundation.
Cairns said he is hoping to raise the remainder of the funds required so he can open the doors to providing accessibility in Tanzania where mobility is a serious issue.
He explained the mayor of Moshi has had meetings with their council and they are waiting for the Foundation to complete the Mount Kili fundraiser and then they will proceed with this new initiative.
Cairns said they will go through Zara charity – the tour company he climbed with.
“They are closely connected and work with the Tanzanian officials,” Cairns explained. “That helps us keep transparent eyes on the ground and accountability half way across the world.”
They are going to look at some mobility devices for the employees of the leather company that we toured. He said the company only hires people with disabilities.
“Some desperately need access to mobility,” Cairns said. “One gentleman had Polio. He was crawling on the floor to work and happy to do so.”
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During the meeting council was very impressed with the news that Cairns will be receiving the 2016 Peter Soumalias Unsung Hero Award at the Walk of Fame ceremony in October.
Last year, fellow Quinte West resident Evelyn Wilson was honoured with the award for her continued contributions to the community.
