In a split second his life changed forever. In the following years, he changed the lives of thousands.
Stuart Dunne, a man of indomitable spirit and unwavering determination, was an extraordinary man who left an indelible mark on the world. Born on February 5th, 1968, Stuart’s journey was defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to overcome challenges with resilience and ingenuity.
From an early age, Stuart exhibited a natural inclination for adventure and a penchant for mischief alongside his older brother, Mike. Their escapades, reminiscent of tales from a comic book, exemplified Stuart’s daring and entrepreneurial spirit. Even during his school days, Stuart’s entrepreneurial instincts were evident when he seized the opportunity to capitalize on the popularity of Hubba Bubba bubblegum, turning it into a thriving business venture.
Stuart’s life took an unexpected turn when a catastrophic car accident at the age of 17 left him with life-changing injuries. However, he refused to let his physical limitations define him. With sheer determination and an unwavering belief in his abilities, Stuart defied expectations and learned to accomplish tasks many deemed impossible. He not only dressed himself, transferred in and out of a car, and managed everyday activities but also became an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Stuart was truly one of the original ‘super-tetras’, a ground-breaking group of tetraplegics who redefined the expectations of those with high-level spinal cord injuries.
In 1989, Stuart embarked on his entrepreneurial journey alongside his friend John Roney, establishing CJS to sell Chevron wheelchairs. Unwilling to settle for the status quo, Stuart’s confidence in his own abilities led him to manufacture his own wheelchairs, launching Cyclone in 1990. Under his visionary leadership, Cyclone became a pioneering force in the industry, designing and manufacturing innovative wheelchair solutions that transformed the lives of countless individuals.
Stuart’s drive extended far beyond the business realm. He fearlessly embraced wheelchair rugby and represented Great Britain, demonstrating his tenacity and passion for sports. Additionally, he completed numerous wheelchair marathons, defying expectations and pushing the boundaries of what was deemed possible.
He dedicated himself to empowering individuals with disabilities, using his platform to raise awareness and support various charitable causes. Stuart’s relentless commitment, boundless energy, and unwavering independence garnered numerous accolades and awards, surpassing what many able-bodied individuals achieve.
Our leader, friend and inspiration, Stuart Dunne will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a visionary, and a source of inspiration to all who dare to dream and overcome obstacles. His unwavering determination and infectious spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.