MOST people would give up if they’d been through what Jamie “Dodge” Manning has endured, but he’s not only living a normal life, he’s inspiring others to fight on as well.
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And, he’ll take to the stage at an upcoming charity event in the Upper Hunter that is raising money for Limbs for Life (LFL), after generously turning down the profits himself.
Brian Cornish is helping organise the fundraiser, admitting Mr Manning “is truly one of a kind”.
“He could’ve accepted the money but he’d rather it go to somebody else and help their family, you don’t get many people that do that,” he said.
He was also impressed with LFL, and said their devotion to making sure the funds went to the right place was one of the reasons he chose them.
“I’m happy with the way they manage the money,” Mr Cornish explained.
“They don’t burn it up like some other organisations, only about 10 per cent goes to back into admin but the rest goes out to help people.”
Money will be raised at the Merriwa Sports Club on October 27, kicking off at 10am and continuing throughout the afternoon.
The day boasts a range of activities and events for people to participate in such as a barefoot bowls and golf tournament, on top of a raffle and auction.
The auction items have been donated privately or through local businesses, and Mr Cornish said he’ll be thrilled with whatever they can get.
“We haven’t set a goal, anything we receive is a blessing,” he added.
“The whole idea is to help the charity and make people aware [of them].”
The rescue squad will undertake catering throughout the day, too, so there will be an opportunity to help them out as well as LFL.
But, notwithstanding all of the fun events and prizes, the main feature will be a speech from Mr Manning, who will discuss life after his ordeal, and how he’s recovered to become the mentor he is today.
The former Scone bullrider lost a leg and a hand, suffered burns to 40 per cent of his body, broke his back and fractured his skull in a serious car accident, three kilometres from his home, a few years ago.
Anyone interested in joining or creating a bowls or golf side is encouraged to contact Mr Cornish on 0427 021 963 or the Merriwa Sports Club on 6548 2028.