Local charity, Bendrigg Trust brought home the win at the UK’s first ever Rare Disease Film Awards, hosted by Rare Disease UK.
Climbing: The Ripple Effect, follows the incredible climbing journey of a young women called Pip. Pip first started climbing at Bendrigg Trust when she was just 5 years old, now aged 20, she is competing at para-climbing competitions across the UK. The film goes on to highlight how climbing has had an impact on many aspects of her life.
Pip & her twin sister Alix have a rare genetic condition called DDX3X which was only discovered in 2014. Symptoms of the condition can vary from person to person, but will include some developmental delays, communication difficulties and poor muscle tone. Climbing has helped Pip to build her muscle tone, be able to cope in busier environments and make friends with fellow climbers at Bendrigg Trusts inclusive climbing club.
Martha Wood, Bendrigg Trust Marketing & Fundraising Officer said: “Our main aim for the film was to show what an amazing impact adventurous activities can have for disabled people. It also helps to raise much needed awareness for the rare disease DDX3X.”
“We were grateful to receive a grant in 2019 from the ScottishPower Foundation & another from the BMC, which enabled us to create the film. So far it’s has had over 12,000 views on our social channels. That’s 12,000 people who know about DDX3X and the amazing benefits of climbing for disabled people.”
“To win the award for best charity, agency collaboration along with the producers, Adamedia UK, at the first ever Rare Film Awards was great recognition for everyone who put so much work into the film.”
The judge’s feedback included comments like “We absolutely loved it!” and “A powerful example of a case study showing the impact of a sport for someone with a rare disease.”
Individuals or groups interested in the work of the Bendrigg Trust are encouraged to visit their website www.bendrigg.org.uk or call 01539 723766.
Rare Disease Day is on Saturday 29th February 2020
