Let’s Reverse This Together: A Journey to Raise Awareness for Idiopathic Scoliosis
In June 2019, Wayne Ingram M.B.E. MCPara and his family were devastated when his 13-year-old daughter, Freya, was diagnosed with Idiopathic Scoliosis, a severe curvature of the spine that had progressed rapidly. Within weeks, Freya went from being completely free of deformity to having a 74-degree spinal curve, which worsened to over 90 degrees before her life-changing surgery. After her recovery, Wayne knew he had to take action to raise awareness and help other families who might face the same journey.
Campaign Information
Project Name:
Let’s Reverse This Together
Category:
Scoliosis Awareness & Fundraising
Client
Scoliosis Association UK & Masonic Charitable Foundation
Location:
Portland, Dorset to Southampton General Hospital
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To raise awareness of Idiopathic Scoliosis and fundraise for two important charities, Wayne set out to complete a unique and gruelling challenge. He planned to walk 70.6 miles (113.6km) from Portland, where Freya was diagnosed, to Southampton General Hospital, where her surgery took place. But there was a twist—Wayne decided to make the journey walking backwards. This challenge symbolises the difficulties that children with scoliosis face every day, making the point that moving forward isn’t always easy.
“Walking backwards is my way of highlighting the challenges that children with scoliosis face daily. The journey will be tough, but nothing compared to the hardships these kids endure.” – Wayne Ingram M.B.E. MCPara
Wayne Ingram M.B.E. MCPara on BBC Sport
Walking Backwards for Scoliosis Awareness
In this BBC Sport interview, Wayne Ingram shares the inspiration behind his unique fundraising challenge – walking backwards from Portland to Southampton to raise awareness and funds for scoliosis research. Watch as Wayne discusses the personal connection to the cause and his determination to make a difference for children and families affected by scoliosis.
Fundraising Goal: Supporting Scoliosis Research and Family Care
All funds raised through the “Let’s Reverse This Together” campaign will be split between two charities:
Scoliosis Support & Research (SSR):
Scoliosis Support & Research (SSR) is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by scoliosis and advancing research into the condition. SSR works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for those living with scoliosis through information, resources, and funding critical research. Their vision is to uncover the causes of idiopathic scoliosis while providing essential support to patients and their families.The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF):
The MCF generously paid for Freya’s surgery, making it possible for her to receive the life-saving treatment she needed. As one of the largest grant-making charities in the UK, the MCF is committed to building better lives by advancing healthcare and education, and promoting independence.
Why It Matters: Freya’s Story and the Reality of Scoliosis
Idiopathic Scoliosis affects 4 in every 1,000 children in the UK. Many parents, like Wayne, don’t recognise the signs until it’s too late. Wayne’s daughter Freya was fortunate to receive life-changing surgery, but many other children and families continue to struggle with this condition.
“The reason I’m doing this challenge is simple – I want to help prevent other children and parents from going through what my family experienced. The only way to do that is through support, awareness, and research.”
– Wayne Ingram M.B.E. MCPara
All royalties from Wayne’s upcoming book, The Soldier of Conscience, which is set to be released globally in 2025, will go directly to support this campaign.
The book is being published by Pen and Sword, a renowned publisher specialising in military history and biography.
The Science of Scoliosis: What Every Parent Should Know
Idiopathic Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways and twist, leading to noticeable physical deformities, including a hump on one side of the ribcage. It most commonly occurs in children aged 10 to 18. Although the exact cause is unknown, early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Parents and doctors can perform a simple forward-bend test to check for scoliosis. If caught early, treatments like bracing can help slow the curve’s progression, but in severe cases, surgery may be required.
Support the Campaign: How You Can Get Involved
Though the event was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Wayne is now preparing to complete the walk in 2024. He invites everyone to follow along and show their support by sponsoring his journey.
Special Thanks
Wayne would like to extend a special thanks to the following businesses and individuals for their invaluable support during this campaign:
