Our story
Back Up might look different now compared to where we started. But our values, and dedication to ensuring everyone affected by spinal cord injury has the opportunity to thrive, are just as strong today as they were in 1986.
Mike Nemesvary, our founder, was a world champion freestyle skier with numerous TV and film appearances, including performing stunts in the James Bond film, A View to a Kill. Aged just 24, Mike’s life changed forever. During a routine training session on a trampoline, he landed awkwardly and broke his neck.
The impact on Mike and his loved ones was devastating. Not only was he paralysed from the shoulders down, he thought he’d lost his greatest love – skiing. But Mike was determined to change this.
Mike and his close friends realised there was still a way for Mike to get back up the mountain. And by getting back up, he would regain his zest for life and self belief. Just eight months after his injury, Mike was in Switzerland learning to sit-ski.
In 1986, with the support of co-founders Barbara Broccoli, Konrad Bartelski, and Jess Stock, bringing together experience from the film and skiing worlds, Mike founded Back Up. His goal was to give everyone affected by spinal cord injury the chance to experience the same freedom and joy he found on the slopes.
(from left) Becky Hill, Louise Wright, Mike Nemesvary, Bob Greig
What started with a ski course has evolved into something far bigger than Mike, Barbara, Konrad and Jess could have imagined. Today, Back Up offers a range of services. These include wheelchair skills training, mentoring, vocational support, courses, dedicated services for children and young people, and family support.
Everything we do today is driven by Back Up’s original vision: a world where everyone with a spinal cord injury can fulfil their potential.
“The commitment of volunteers cannot be stressed enough – from trustees, mentors and school advocates to wheelchair skills trainers and volunteers on courses and our many fundraisers and supporters, Back Up would not be in existence today without the literally thousands of individuals who believed in our mission.”
Mike Nemesvary
Looking Ahead
Limitless Ambition to Transform Lives, our 2025-2030 strategy, sets out a bold vision for the future of Back Up.
Building on the progress of the Transforming Lives (2021-2025) strategy, we’re expanding our reach, enhancing support, and breaking down barriers to make sure everyone affected by spinal cord injury has the opportunity to thrive.
Over 500 people have helped create our strategy through workshops, interviews, surveys, and focus groups. Their voices helped us define three key goals:
- Goal One: Living Confidently – Empowering people with a spinal cord injury with the confidence, knowledge, and practical skills to live a full and independent life.
- Goal Two: Everyone Thriving – Ensuring all individuals affected by spinal cord injury can reach their full potential.
- Goal Three: Meaningful Connections – Creating opportunities for people affected by spinal cord injury to connect with others in similar situations to achieve their goals.
Our strategy and goals will help us to achieve our vision of a world where everyone with a spinal cord injury can fulfil their potential. It will guide everything we do today, tomorrow, and to 2030.
If our story inspires you, get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.
Wherever you are on your journey, we help you achieve your ambitions. Register for our services today!
Donate to Limitless Ambition and transform lives today.
Your time, energy, and limitless ambition transform lives. Join us as a volunteer today!
