Quadruple Amputee Fundraiser
2238. Luke Mortimer
Luke Mortimer, aged 10, from Skipton, has raised £26,000 for charities that help children with disabilities, including ‘LimbPower’ and ‘Children in Need’ through climbing challenges.
At just seven years old, Luke contracted meningococcal meningitis septicemia in 2019 and, after 23 surgeries in ten weeks, left hospital as a quadruple amputee. Having been supported by a number of charities since leaving hospital, Luke wanted to pay the kindness he experienced forward and set himself the challenge of climbing 656ft up Embsay Crag to raise money. Luke had originally hoped to raise £500 but his success of reaching the summit inspired hundreds of people to donate, with the total amount raised for ‘LimbPower’ and ‘Children in Need’ reaching £26,000.
Luke plans to continue raising money for charities that help children with disabilities through climbing challenges, with plans to participate in a National 3 Peak and Yorkshire 3 Peak challenge later this year.
In a personal letter to Luke, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said:
“I can scarcely imagine the challenges that you faced after contracting meningitis at just seven years of age and needing 23 surgeries to save your life.
“But you faced those challenges, overcame them, and then set out on a mission to help other children who are facing their own challenges. What an inspiration you are.
“By reaching the top of Embsay Crag you raised an incredible £26,000 for LimbPower and Children in Need. But, of course, you aren’t stopping there! It is wonderful to hear how you are planning to continue your climbing challenges to raise more money for charities that support children with disabilities.”
Congratulating Luke on his award, Rt Hon Julian Smith CBE, MP for Skipton and Ripon, said:
“Luke is an inspiration and this recognition of his fundraising efforts is thoroughly deserved.
“In the face of huge adversity from such a young age, Luke’s dedication and perseverance means others facing life-changing circumstances will be able to access the support they need.
“Huge congratulations to Luke on his award.”
Luke said:
“I am amazed and honoured to have received this award!”
Luke’s father, Adam, said:
“We are so proud of everything that Luke has achieved.”
Find out more about ‘Luke Mortimer’