MS Warrior Ben Parker Takes On Oxford to Cambridge Wheelchair Challenge

A man living with multiple sclerosis is taking on an inspiring wheelchair challenge between two of Britain's most famous university cities. Ben Parker, 49, hopes his journey from Oxford to Cambridge will raise money for charity, increase awareness of multiple sclerosis, and show what determination can achieve in the face of adversity.

A wheelchair user living with multiple sclerosis is embarking on a remarkable journey between Oxford and Cambridge to raise money for charity and inspire others facing life's challenges.

Ben Parker, 49, from Saffron Walden in Essex, has set himself the task of travelling from Oxford to Cambridge entirely in his wheelchair, covering dozens of miles through towns, villages and countryside along the route.

Ben was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2009. As the condition progressed, he increasingly struggled with mobility and began using a wheelchair in 2023 after losing much of the use of his legs.

Rather than allowing the condition to limit his ambitions, Ben has turned his focus towards setting himself new challenges and helping others. The Oxford to Cambridge journey is the latest example of his determination to make a positive difference while raising awareness of multiple sclerosis.

His story is one of perseverance and resilience. After his diagnosis, Ben completely changed the direction of his life. Having left school without qualifications, he worked tirelessly to gain GCSEs, A-levels and a Mathematics degree before fulfilling his ambition of becoming a teacher.

Now, he is once again pushing himself beyond what many would consider possible.

"The pain I go through to get through these challenges is significant," Ben said. "But I'm looking forward to getting back to where I finished and continuing the push through St Neots and on towards Cambridge."

The challenge is raising funds for Multiple Sclerosis UK, a cause that is particularly close to Ben's heart.

"All the money raised goes to Multiple Sclerosis UK because they are an incredible charity," he said.

Supported throughout the challenge by his partner, Louise Hayes, Ben hopes not only to raise vital funds but also to inspire others facing their own difficulties.

His message is simple but powerful: "Never allow the knocks to define your ability to be who you are."

As he makes his way through communities including St Neots on the final stretch towards Cambridge, Ben hopes his journey will encourage others living with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or personal setbacks to keep striving towards their goals, regardless of the obstacles in their path.

Those wishing to support Ben's fundraising efforts can donate via his Givestar page:
https://givestar.io/gs/wheelchair-4-challenges

Talking to Ste Greenall on The Full English Breakfast on Thursday morning (28MAY26) Ben said: