A Haitian earthquake survivor’s bid to compete in next year’s London Paralympics has moved closer thanks to help from a Kingston charity.

Leon Gaysil was paralysed after sustaining spinal cord injuries in the January 2010 disaster, in which he lost his wife and eight children.

He was treated at the Haiti Hospital Appeal, whose Kingston founder Carwyn Hill aims to send a Haitian team to London 2012 to combat the stigma of disability in the Caribbean country.

Despite cholera afflicting his country and a lack of funds, Mr Gaysil took part in his first international competition, the Parapan Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Sunday, November 13.

Mr Hill wrote: “Seeing a man who’s lost everything representing his nation, and humbly recognising his unique privilege to represent all those with disabilities in Haiti, was perhaps one of the most inspiring and happy moments my relationship with Haiti has had.”

Mr Gaysil, who hoped to boost his chance of a wildcard entry into London 2012, overturned on a corner, but remounted and completed the course.

Mr Hill added: “This week though will be filled with some hard training, trying to give him practice on corners, and build his confidence in the changing of gears.

“A nervous week ahead, as the race on Saturday takes on even greater significance for a good time, and any chance of a possible place in London 2012.”