Wheelchair dancer 
overcomes pain to 
win competition

Hayley Davies suffers from an excruciating nerve disorder which renders her almost immobile but told how she powers through the agony at dancing contests because her hobby allows her to “forget” the pain.

The 15-year-old has had mobility problems caused by neuropathy for the last three years and has been forced to use a wheelchair every day since January after her condition deteriorated.

Despite the pain when she performs her complex moves, Hayley still dances twice a
week.

She even managed to win a regional contest and will now go on to a nationwide final.

Hayley, of Barnsley, said: “When I move, pain rushes through my whole body.

“I get piercing pains in my legs, my hips, my arms, even my fingertips – but when I’m dancing I’m so happy and I forget about the pain.

“I often have to stop for a
break during sessions if it becomes too much but I’m determined to dance despite my condition.

“I love dancing and there’s so much to be concentrating on when I’m doing it so it allows me to forget.

“I have to use a wheelchair when I go shopping and every day at school because walking between lessons becomes too painful for me.”

She started ballroom dancing after being forced to give up ballet.