Michael Crawford Hick

Fast forward a few years to Easter Sunday, April 22, a day that would change everything. While innocently reaching into my bag at Waterloo station, I slid off the bench and suddenly found myself unable to get back up. My left side and everything below the waist seemed to have gone on strike. Thankfully, I was able to get help and was whisked away by ambulance to King's Hospital for a battery of tests, most of which came back negative. After being admitted to a ward due to my inability to walk, I was hit with the diagnosis: FND (Functional Neurological Disorder). Ok... what's that? 

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On Day 4, I was encouraged to get up and attempt to walk. Despite experiencing spasms and pain in my legs, I managed to complete a half lap of the ward area, only stopping three times. By Day 5, I was finally discharged. The consultant emphasized the importance of seeking help, mentioning mental health. While in the hospital, I met with a counselor who advised me to seek assistance, as my condition has completely altered my life. I can no longer run for the bus or engage in many activities I once enjoyed. I had to come to terms with the loss of my previous life and find a way to move forward... but move forward to what?

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After receiving mental health therapy and consulting with a neurologist, I realized that I couldn't just sit at home and do nothing for the rest of my life. Drawing on my skills in photography, and motivated by an inspiring speaker at a seminar I luckily attended, I launched disabilitysportsnetwork.com. Just seven days later, the website was up and running, complete with stock images. The very next day, I captured the excitement of a wheelchair basketball game, and the rest, as they say, is history!

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As I expanded my network and delved deeper into photography, I realized there was a fantastic opportunity to showcase my work to the disability community. That opportunity presented itself at a low-cost disability expo in July 2023, and it turned out to be a tremendous success! However, the excitement of the event took a toll on me, and I ended up collapsing just 20 minutes after the show ended. Thankfully, some kind stall holders came to my rescue and ensured I made it home safely.

Shortly after that experience, I found myself at the International Blind Games, capturing unforgettable moments through my lens. To my surprise, I received a press pass for the prestigious Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, Germany in September. Now, I am thrilled to be assisting grassroots level disabled individuals in capturing stunning photos for their social media and websites.

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In 2024, I am excited to announce the launch of a groundbreaking magazine created by and for disabled individuals who are passionate about sports. Our goal is to showcase the incredible achievements and stories of disabled athletes, while promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sports community. I have already begun planning a series of exciting events for 2024, and I am currently seeking sponsors to help cover the costs associated with producing the magazine. It is important to me that I am able to compensate my team of staff and freelancers fairly for their hard work, as well as cover expenses related to event photography. I am looking for sponsors who can assist with travel and photography costs, as well as support my vision for the magazine as a Community Interest Company (CIC).  To help fund these initiatives, I will be launching a GoFundMe page to raise additional funds. I have personally invested over £5,000 in equipment and resources for the magazine, and any support from sponsors or donors would be greatly appreciated.

 

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Additionally, if you have an upcoming event that you think would be a great fit for our magazine, please contact me with the details. I am always looking for new opportunities to showcase the incredible talent and dedication of disabled athletes, and I may already have plans in place for events like the Paralympics if I am able to secure a pass.