A Wisbech woman is to host her debut horse show this weekend having overcome a fall whilst riding that left her hospitalised with serious spinal fractures.
Kayleigh Cox has organised the 48 class show in aid of the Magpas Air Ambulance charity in just over a month - with 443 people signed up to take part on Saturday, August 19.
The 28-year-old said: “The care that Magpas gave me was incredible - professional but extremely caring and heartfelt. I felt like I really mattered.
“I originally assumed Magpas was government funded. But then I found out the charity relies on public donations.
“Most people I know, in turn, know someone who’s a horse rider that Magpas has been there for. I had to do something.”
On May 2 earlier this year, in Emneth, Kayleigh was riding her horse when the saddle slipped and she fell, hearing a loud crack as she hit the ground.
“I tried to sit up, but the pain was excruciating,” said Kayleigh, who suffered serious spinal fractures - one of which went straight through the vertebrae.
An enhanced medical team from Magpas Air Ambulance, paramedic Ollie Robinson and Dr Mark Tehan, were called to gave Kayleigh hospital-level treatment to help stabilise her condition. She was then taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital for further treatment.
Just over three months later and Kayleigh has recovered. Visiting the charity’s operations base and meeting one of the team that made a critical difference to her recovery spurred her into action.
Kayleigh set about organising her own horse riding event in Wisbech, despite never having planned one before.
One month on and she’s arranged 48 showing, fun and gymkhana classes for the day, complete with specially-designed orange rosettes (in the charity colour).
So far, 443 people have signed up to take part - with all the money raised going to Magpas Air Ambulance.
Kayleigh’s Charity Horse Show is taking place at 175 Outwell Road, Emneth, Wisbech PE14 8BG. Classes begin at 9am and the entry fee per class is £2 to £5.
For more information about the fundraiser search ‘MAGPAS Charity Horse Show’ on Facebook.
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