July 7 bombings survivor Martine Wright told today how training for a Strictly Come Dancing charity special has helped her come to terms with her injuries.
The double amputee and Paralympian said dancing had been a huge part of her life before the terror attacks of 2005. “I used to be one of the first up to dance. I have so many memories that doing it without legs was tough psychologically,” she added.
“In eight years I haven’t danced in my wheelchair, only ever with my [prosthetic] legs on. I tried it in the past in a wheelchair and it brought home that I have lost my legs. I always had in my head that it would be great to dance again and be comfortable with who I am in the wheelchair. Sport Relief has educated and taught me to move forward from these negative thoughts. Since training with Sport Relief I haven’t thought once about being in my chair.”
Ms Wright led the sitting volleyball team at the 2012 London Games and will be one of four Paralympians taking part in the challenge, to be broadcast during Sport Relief on BBC1 on Friday.
She will be partnered by Strictly professional Ian Waite. “I nearly fainted when they asked me. I’m a massive Strictly fan,” she said. “The icing on the cake is knowing we are helping such a fantastic charity. Sport’s rebuilt my life.”
Ms Wright, now 41, from Tring, was almost killed in the Aldgate Tube bomb. The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games take place from Friday to Sunday. The public can join in by running, swimming or cycling their way to raising cash. The Standard’s Dispossessed Fund will be a beneficiary. Visit sportrelief.com
