DISABLED TEEN ON WAY TO WEMBLEY
THE WINNER of a JC competition for England football tickets has given his prize to a teenager who overcame a serious condition to become a qualified football referee and scuba diver.
Daniel Wittenberg, 18, a member of New North London Synagogue in Finchley, said he had passed on his England v Portugal tickets to “inspirational” Garrett Eeles, 15.
Garrett has Erb’s Palsy, a lifelong condition caused by a shoulder being obstructed during childbirth. It can affect a single nerve or leave complete paralysis in an arm.
Daniel, who has “a very minor” form of Erb’s Palsy, praised Garrett as “a perfect example of someone who can get on with their life and be an inspiration to others.
“The fact that he’s a qualified referee is so impressive, because it’s easy to let conditions like this get the better of you.” The University College School student added that Garrett deserved the tickets for “his remarkable spirit,and the help he gives to the Erb’s Palsy Group charity.” Garrett said the condition “hasn’t stopped me from doing anything,.” The west Londoner was “really pumped” about the “very special gift” from Daniel. He was “most looking forward to seeing [Cristiano] Ronaldo in action for the first time.” Garrett added that although it was kind of Daniel to describe him as an inspiration, he had simply come to terms with his capabilities. “I push myself, and I’ve adapted to the way my body works.”