It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Claire Lomas MBE, one of our much-loved and dedicated Patrons. Claire was not only a staunch supporter of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, but she also became a beacon of hope and inspiration to thousands across the UK and beyond.
Since becoming a Patron in 2012, Claire’s dedication to raising awareness and funding for spinal cord research has been nothing short of extraordinary. Through her tireless fundraising efforts, she raised an astonishing £1 million to support crucial research aimed at finding a cure for spinal cord injury. Her unwavering commitment to the cause helped elevate the profile of spinal cord injury research and inspired countless individuals to join the movement.
But Claire’s contributions extended far beyond financial support. As a motivational speaker, she had an unparalleled ability to connect with people on a personal level. Whether speaking to students in schools, employees at businesses, or audiences at public events, Claire’s story of resilience, courage, and determination resonated deeply. She encouraged others to push beyond their own limits, showing by example that anything is possible when faced with adversity.
Claire embraced every new challenge with an infectious enthusiasm that was impossible to ignore. Her tenacity and sense of purpose were matched only by her joy for life, as she tackled everything from marathon walks to hand-cycling challenges, always with a smile and a heart full of hope. Her journey, from the day she suffered her spinal cord injury to her groundbreaking achievements, served as a reminder that no obstacle is too great to overcome.
Beyond her public efforts, Claire was a source of kindness and support for everyone she met. She not only helped raise awareness but also gave so many individuals living with spinal cord injuries the belief that change is possible and that a cure is within reach. Her passion for making a tangible difference never wavered, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to fight for a future free from the limitations of spinal cord injuries.
We send our deepest condolences to Claire’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Her spirit, generosity, and passion will live on through the work we do, and we will continue to honour her memory by pushing forward in the fight for a cure.
We will forever be grateful for everything Claire gave to our charity and the spinal cord injury community. She was a true ambassador for change and a shining light for all those whose lives she touched.
