A MAN has recently faced his fears and took on a 100-foot abseil for a great cause.

Chris De Rosa, 48, joined hundreds of thrill seekers to take on the famous Falkirk Wheel Abseil in a bid to raise funds for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus (SBH) Scotland.

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Glasgow Times:

Chris, who is an award-winning illusionist from Cambuslang, was first introduced to SBH Scotland when he performed at the charity's Ladies Lunch fundraiser in 2018 and was moved by the inspiring stories from families across the country who are supported by the specialist charity.

"I was aware of spina bifida and hydrocephalus previously but after having met the fantastic SBH Scotland team in 2018, I was blown away by the life-changing impact its services have on thousands of Scottish families," Chris said.

He continued: "It’s important to me to give back and I regularly donate or fundraise for smaller charities who don’t receive as much government support as bigger organisations."

Glasgow Times:

Chris went on to say that although he was terrified to do the challenge, he is already eyeing up his next adventure. 

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He explained: “The flawless organisation of the event and the infectious enthusiasm of the staff helped to settle my nerves although I have to admit, I was terrified to step over the railing.

“However, as soon as I started to descend my fears vanished and I felt a rush of exhilaration take over. I’m already looking at what challenge I can take on next and have my eye on Zipslide the Clyde later this year."

Glasgow Times:

The £413.75 raised by Chris for the charity will go directly towards providing personalised support to families across Scotland who are affected by lifelong, complex conditions of spina bifida, hydrocephalus and related conditions.  

Deborah Roe, director of fundraising for SBH Scotland, said: "We were thrilled to bring back our Falkirk Wheel Abseil challenge for its third year.

"£31,000 was raised and this will ensure our support workers can provide dedicated support to parents across Scotland coming to terms with their baby having spina bifida and hydrocephalus, supporting them in hospital and through every stage in their child’s life.

"It really is true that every pound raised has a powerful impact on the lives of others.

“We’re very grateful to Chris for facing his fears and taking part. I hope his bravery inspires others to get involved, no matter how daunting the exciting challenges may seem, and take on an SBH Scotland adrenaline event to support families." 

To find out more about the range of support services offered by SBH Scotland or to organise your own fundraiser, click HERE or contact their fundraising team via fundraising@sbhscotland.org.uk