Oldham teenager smashes 10-hour solo sailing challenge

 

The teenager's friends and family supported her from the lakeside, selling refreshments and cakes in exchange for a donation.

The challenge would be a gruelling test of endurance and stamina for any teenage girl, but it was especially tough for Ellia, who has an often-painful growth condition called patella femoral dysfunction.

Her condition means she frequently needs crutches to walk and she can suffer acute pain in her knees.

Ellia was diagnosed with her condition in September 2018 but has never let it hold her back and began sailing when she was just nine-years-old.

Ellia, who lives in Grasscroft, said:

“I’ve spent a lot of time at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital over the years so I really wanted to do something to give back.

It was an amazing experience, the weather was perfect and the support was astounding! Thank you for all your support and donations!"

After originally planning to take part in the challenge in 2020, the teenager had been practicing on the water when allowed between restrictions, and doing daily sessions on a rowing machine.

Not only is Ellia a regular patient of Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, she is also part of the hospital’s Youth Forum.

This means she is one of the young people who is involved in developing health services and influencing policies and procedures.

The group creates a link between senior managers and the young service users of the hospital.

All the funds Ellia raised will be sent to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity who, at Ellia’s request, will divide the money between the Youth Forum, the High Dependency Unit, Ward 84 (oncology and hematology) and Ward 85 (which looks after a number of young patients, including those with cardiology, cystic fibrosis, endocrinology and respiratory problems).

Ellia’s mum Joanna said: “Ellia is very passionate about helping the children’s hospital and doing all she can.

“Originally, sailing was secondary to her ballet. She took the Royal Yachting Association’s Youth Sailing Scheme courses when she was younger, but ballet was always her biggest hobby.

“Sadly her condition meant she had to give up ballet. But now she’s really developed a love of sailing, joined Redesmere Sailing Club and improved her skills. She’s also bought her own dinghy called Fantaztic.

“I’m so proud of her and what she has achieved. When Ellia sets her mind to something she gives it her all. She really wants to make a big difference to the hospital

Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity’s Community Fundraising Officer Georgia Sleigh said:

“It’s incredible that Ellia chose 10 hours of sailing for her challenge – she’s definitely not starting small and obviously wants to make a real impact for the children’s hospital".