Manon & Patrick bang on Dwars Door Lievegem

Manon & Patrick realize their sporting dream together

Where there is a will, there is a way.

On October 1, Manon & Patrick captured an unforgettable sports moment. They shone during the entire half marathon course of Dwars Door Lievegem and are having the time of their lives.

We are happy to share Manon and Patrick’s heroic story. ❤️💚💜

Looking for adventure.

Patrik’s heart breaks at the realization that because of her disability, his daughter will never live the youth and crazy life of his. That is why for 12 years he has been diligently bending over backwards and forwards to experience things with Manon that most parents with a child with a disability do not. As a toddler, she was overjoyed when Patrick took her in a sturdy backpack on long hikes in the Ardennes. When Manon grew up, they put mountain bike tires on her wheelchair and Patrick and his wife pulled her through every wild forest. Manon, too, was determined. Because she also loves adventure.

“And where there is a will, there is a way” clarifies Manon!

What was your/your challenge and why did you want to do this?

“Our challenge was to really pop a half marathon together at Dwars Door Lievegem. The idea came about during my shoulder rehabilitation. I was dreaming out loud at home and my enthusiastic Manon picked it up and immediately called out…”
“Dad I want to do that with you!”. My heart melted, but I thought: how am I going to do this?
On Manon’s chin, I got to know Triple Challenge. I joined the club’s Saturday training sessions in Landegem starting in May and our challenge became a reality.

What did it do to you/you?

“I never thought this would have such an impact on Manon and me. We are now part of a wonderful group of people.
We both feel so good about Triple Challenge that we will stick around anyway” laughs Patrick.
We want to help grow the organization. It gives me great pleasure and so does Manontje. And that’s what I’m doing it for.”

What is the most memorable moment of your challenge that sticks with you?

“What sticks with me most of all is that it’s really nice to be in the spotlight with my daughter and to show off in the gazette.
It is indeed a great story that a father is doing this with his daughter but all the volunteers who just get involved deserve even more attention.
It’s a beautiful, silly gang!”