The STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the new Disability Racing Va’a, reinforcing its commitment to empowering athletes with disabilities. This support is particularly meaningful as it backs former STEPS client Shaun Cook, who will be competing at the World Marathon Championships in Croatia this September.

About Shaun Cook

Shaun Cook, a former STEPS client and member of Norwich Canoe Club, experienced a life-changing spinal cord injury following a motorbike accident in April 2018. He arrived at STEPS Rehabilitation on the 16th June 2019 for a 6-week intensive rehabilitation programme and focussed on regaining his strength and mobility with the goal of returning to competitive sports.

Once home, Shuan discovered a passion for kayaking, after being introduced to the sport by a friend and receiving encouragement from Tim Scott, para coach at Norwich Canoe Club. Shaun's dedication to the sport led him to compete in the International Va’a Federation World Distance Championships in Samoa and the International Canoe Federation World Marathon Championships in Denmark in 2023, where he won gold medals in both events.

Earlier this year, Shaun revisited STEPS to share his inspiring journey with the team and current clients. He spoke candidly about his experiences, offering motivation and practical advice. Shaun highlighted the importance of celebrating small victories, saying, “When I was first injured, I thought 'that's it - you're paralysed now. All I can do is sit in front of the TV, sob and play computer games. Looking at my life now, this is probably the best thing that has ever happened to me.’”

He continued, “Remember to reward yourself with all the small wins, as these build up to bigger achievements. Keep winning, and you'll start to see these small victories contribute to a larger picture of what you can achieve.”

Shaun has his sights set on the 2028 Summer Paralympics in Los Angeles and is driven by the desire to be a positive role model for his son and others.

Read Shaun’s Case Study here.

About STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation

Established in autumn 2023, the STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals recovering from complex trauma injuries and illnesses. The Foundation provides vital support and funding for specialist rehabilitation services, disability aids, home adaptations, and accessible leisure and sports opportunities, particularly for those with limited funding options.

The sponsorship of the Disability Racing Va’a is a testament to the Foundation’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the equipment and coaching needed to excel in competitive racing and promoting inclusivity in sports.

About Norwich Canoe Club

Recognised by Paddle UK as a centre of excellence, Norwich Canoe Club champions inclusivity with its vibrant programme for paddlers with disabilities. The club recently hosted a paddling event that welcomed current and former paddlers with disabilities, along with their families and friends, underscoring their commitment to providing opportunities for all abilities to enjoy paddling and nature.

About Disability Racing Va’a

Disability Racing Va’a features adaptive paddling using a Va’a, a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe, modified for athletes with disabilities. This sport offers an accessible way for paddlers with various physical impairments to compete in both individual and team events.

For more information about the STEPS Rehabilitation Foundation and how to support their work or make an application, click here.

For details about the Marathon World Championships in Croatia, please click here.