Deaf Leeds teen's Olympic dreams hang in the balance

June 24, 2009 - PRLog -- The equestrian sporting dreams of a deaf Yorkshire teen hang in the balance as a fundraising drive is launched to help her compete at the Special Olympics.

Tanika Foster, 16 from Crossgates, Leeds is a talented horseriding regional champion with high hopes of competing at a national level this July. As a valued member of the Leeds Deaf Youth Club, Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People is helping Tanika fundraise to help her realise her dreams.

In the absence of a supporting governing body for equestrian sports and deaf riders, and with only five weeks until the prestigious competition, Tanika urgently needs to raise vital funds to secure her place at the Special Olympics.

Tanika, who is moderately deaf and has learning difficulties, said: “I love riding my horse, Louis, and it has been my ambition for years to represent Yorkshire and Humberside at a national level. The thought of not being able to attend the games due to funding issues is really upsetting.”

Tracy Foster, Tanika’s mother, added: “I feel Tanika is at a disadvantage because unlike every other sport, there is no governing body that can provide funding and support, simply because there aren’t that many deaf people who want to ride. Since taking up horseriding and attending the Leeds Deaf Youth club, Tanika’s confidence has soared. She has made new friends and achieved so much, proving that disabilities do not hold you back.

“Leeds Society has been a huge help to our family. For years I was too embarrassed to ask for help in caring for Tanika, but the Youth Club provides a safe place for my daughter to have fun and meet other people like herself, whilst providing the support that I need to ensure that she has the best possible future.”

Funds raised through the Society will cover the entry fee of £500, riding jacket, accommodation and special Oticon Amigo radio hearing aids. The radio aids themselves cost £1,300, however are necessary for Tanika to be able to hear more effectively in the showground arena.

Barbara Fraher, youth development officer at Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People, said: “Tanika has an exceptional talent and is a true inspiration to other children. She is a perfect example of how we help bring out the best in people and help them achieve what they want to in life.”

To donate funds to help Tanika attend the Special Olympics call Barbara or James at Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People on 0113 200 5271.

To find out how the Society always goes that extra mile to help families cope with visual and hearing impairments visit www.leedsdeafandblind.org.uk

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Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People offers support and advice to people in the UK who live with a hearing or visual impairment or learning disabilities. With services for all age ranges, the Society is a vibrant place to meet up with friends and relax