A PARALYSED dad from Llanfairfechan has said how proud he is of his son’s fundraising efforts to support him following a devastating accident that changed his life.

Thomas Belt and his friend, Zak, have made it to the summit of Macchu Piccu dressed as Teletubbies to raise money for Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) - the charity that supported his dad when he needed it the most.

Dylan Belt, 59, was involved in an accident in 2020, resulting in a spinal cord injury, leaving him paralysed from the chest down.

READ MORE:

Llandudno Transport Festival to return in 2024 – what to expect

Quarry rocks rain down on Llandudno’s North Shore promenade

This was amid the COVID-19 outbreak, and subsequent quarantining that meant his family were unable to visit him in hospital, leaving him in isolation while coming to terms with a life-changing injury.

Thomas said: “SIA have been a huge help to my father and wider family since my dad’s accident four years ago connecting them with support services and offering expert advice and guidance. 

“Raising money to help support SIA provide their vital services every day to those with spinal cord injuries was always a no-brainer.”

Thomas and Zak saw friends and family voting for their favourite fancy dress option to make this tough challenge even more gruelling.

The dynamic duo completed their four-day trek dressed as Teletubbies Po and Dipsy, having overcome some treacherous conditions including a bout of bad weather, clambering up mudslides and rocky terrain.

Thomas said: “Having completed various long-distance hikes, including a Three Peaks Challenge, I can comfortably say this was the hardest yet due to the altitude alone - reaching 4600m/15,090 feet at the highest point.

“The steep inclines, road destroying landslides and boiling costumes all seemed tame in comparison.”

Dylan, on hearing the news that his son had completed the challenge, said: “I am very proud of Tommy and all his friends who have helped and supported him on his fund-raising efforts.

“I was with them every step of the way - albeit virtually!”

Thomas added: “Dad is doing OK. He, unfortunately, has pressure sores which does impact his life.

“I’m grateful that he is the strongest-willed person I’ve ever known and is a true inspiration to all those around him.”