St Mary's Calne
On Tuesday evening, we were very fortunate to hear from Alex Lewis, in our final Sixth Form Lecture of the academic year. Alex spoke to both the Fifth and Sixth Forms about his inspiring story. In November 2013, he contracted Strep A which also led to the development of sepsis. This changed his life, and for the next two years he was in and out of hospital with his condition resulting in the loss both of his arms and legs. After being given just a 3% chance of survival, Alex defeated these odds. He spoke to us both about his story, and the impact it has subsequently had on his life, but also taught us the importance of resilience. He did not let these events define him and has taken on many incredible challenges in the last 10 years to show others that nothing is impossible, despite how it might seem.
Having heard this talk once before, when we were aged 10, we believed Alex’s story is one everyone should hear, as it has stuck with us for all these years. Along with members of both UVI and LVI Forms, we were very lucky to have the opportunity to talk to Alex more personally at the pre-lecture supper, where we discussed all the amazing things he has done and the places he has seen.
Alex’s speech was inspiring. There are no other words to describe it and we are so glad others got to hear him speak. Just one of the many amazing things he has done is his work setting up the ‘Wild Wheelchairs Project’ during his time in Ethiopia. This has funded the development of a wheelchair manufacturing and repair facility in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. The project commenced in 2018 and today over 50 mobility aids have been produced there, and these wheelchairs have transformed the lives of those who have received them. In the UK, Alex has been working for many years with Engineering students at a variety of universities to do pioneering work in the development of prosthetics for others with similar conditions, as well as himself.
Staff, students, and members of the local community have all expressed how impactful Alex’s talk was, and we are sure his message on the kindness of those around you will stick with us all for many years. On behalf of everyone we would like to say a massive thank you to Alex for coming to speak to us and we wish him all the very best for all his future adventures!
Polly and Kitty, UVI
Anyone who would like to read more about Alex’s incredible story, please read more here.
Anyone who would like to donate to Alex’s foundation and development projects can do so here.