Peckham man needs help raising funds to realise his World Cup dream
A Peckham man has qualified to play for England in the World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) World Cup in October – but is relying on raising funds to realise his dream of competing in Mexico.
Michael Ishiguzo, 37, suffered a football injury which ultimately led to an above-the-knee amputation.
He has played as a striker for Arsenal in the Community and competes in the England Amputee Football League – his performances landing a call-up by his country.
Ishiguzo said: “I could become depressed and think why me? Why did I have to lose my leg? But that is admitting defeat. I will never give up on life.
“A condition cannot determine what you do with your life. I believe you should not let anything hold you back. The only thing that can stop you from doing what you desire is you – being an amputee is not an excuse to give up on your dreams.”
England Amputee Football Association is not a part of the Football Association and relies on donations and support from sponsors and individuals – as well as help from volunteers – in order to function.
The team are required to fundraise to be able to compete.
Ishiguzo is part of the Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme which helps athletes to achieve national and international sporting success by offering them sponsorship.
He receives free access to Everyone Active facilities and has been training hard at Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre.
To make a donation please visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/michael-ishiguzo-1?utm_term=wav2EzJb6
iiChild, will be holding a Camp for young people during the Summer from the 30th July to 24 August at the Brandon Estate. This is the same estate 17 year old Rhyhiem Barton lived and was shot on. The aim of the Camp is to keep young people off the street away from gun and knife crime. If any members of the public would like to sponsor a child we would be most grateful.