About us

The CatWalk Trustees originally gathered together because of common links to a friend critically injured in a riding accident. That friend was Catriona Williams,now a C6-7 tetraplegic.

Initially the group planned to fundraise for Williams herself – but a bigger picture quickly became clear. A cure for all was Williams’ dream – and so CatWalk was born.

"Only legs that work could make my days better!" says Williams. “I want to do things not have things.”

After exploring several options, the group agreed that supporting researchers in the very realistic bid for a cure for Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) would be CatWalk’s aim, following along the lines of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

With Williams appointed chairman, she began approaching more friends and colleagues and the momentum grew.

"Everyone put up their hand to help without question, it was overwhelming. What we seem to have achieved is a fun group with a serious aim: getting people out of wheelchairs and back on their feet. So although we approach the work of the Trust with enthusiasm and try to have a few laughs, there is a real message behind it.”

CatWalk’s initial fundraiser at Ellerslie Events Centre on 23rd June 2005 kicked off an exciting programme for the Trust. $400,000 was raised with the help of 680 guests at a sell out dinner that International Patron Zara Phillips attended.

“In the meantime, we’ll also be using this website extensively to provide everyone with an idea of where things are at nationally and internationally with stem cell research, intensive physiotherapy and so forth. We welcome feedback and messages of support. Thanks to everyone who has shown they care!”