Mark Nicholson from Sheffield – an electric wheelchair user involved with the Integr8 programme – tells us about the group he has set up.

‘I have set up a group at St Thomas’ church, Sheffield. Aimed at people with physical disabilities, it is called ‘As You Are’. My heart is that God wants to know us as we are and wants us to be happy with who He has made us to be. This can sometimes be hard for people with disabilities particularly in a church context. The other side of the coin though is that God wants us to get to know Him as He is. As we develop in our relationship with God we develop a better understanding of what God’s will is for our lives. Once we have that understanding then we are in a better place to live it out.’

‘One of my team has suggested that I could reach people through day centres and that is a lead that I am hoping to follow up soon. I am hoping that people from the church will come forward to be part of the team. At a big church like St Thomas’ there will be some people who have friends and family who are disabled. I am praying that they would have a heart to see them come into a relationship with God and that in this way the group will grow.’

‘I am aware that there is also an element of reaching out to families, which we are currently lacking, and I am praying about how we can reach those as well.’

Nothing out of the ordinary so far – except that Joshua is now working as a missionary in Japan and has severe cerebral palsy – it affects all 4 limbs and so he uses an electric wheelchair!
His vision is to bring glory to God by being a witness to the disabled in Japan and to equip the local church to do the same.  Joshua has had struggles in learning the language, finding a carer to be with him in Japan and finding accessible accommodation but he has already seen many answers to prayer and is loving the adventure.

• You can find out more about Joshua, Jesus and Japan at his website: http://jgrisdale.spaces.live.com/

In 1991 Michael fought Chris Eubank for the World Middleweight title and the referee ended it in round 12. Suddenly Watson collapsed inside the ring but there were no ambulances or medical staff at the venue. He endured 30 minutes without oxygen and spent 40 days in a coma after six brain operations to remove a blood clot left him partially paralysed. The time Watson spent without oxygen is one of the longest anyone has ever survived and if it hadn’t been for his supreme fitness, he would almost certainly have died.

Watson woke up from his coma and was told he would never speak or walk again. He spent many years at the hospital, slowly recovering some of his movements, and regaining the ability to eat, read, and write. In 1999 he started getting off the bed and was able to begin walking therapy. In 2003 Michael Watson made headlines and became an instant hero, when he completed the London Marathon after six days. Finishing the race by his side were Chris Eubank and his neurosurgeon, who has become a personal friend of his.

Before the accident Michael wasn’t a committed Christian. He believed in God but didn’t go to church as he was too busy, rushing around, enjoying the fast cars, expensive clothes and girls. One minute he was a top celebrity, in the ring going for the world title, the next minute, he was in hospital, confused and frustrated with strange people all round him.

From the moment he regained consciousness in hospital he turned to God. He became closer to God and found inner peace and strength. Michael didn’t feel anger towards Chris Eubank because he now believes in forgiveness – Jesus is his inspiration.