Disabled sailing sensation sets her sights on Atlantic crossing

A woman born with cerebral palsy is preparing to test her limits by sailing across the Atlantic Ocean.

Natasha Lambert, whose condition affects her movement and ability to communicate, is able to skipper a yacht using a unique system which allows her to take control of the sails and rudder of the boat using only her breath and tongue.

The 23-year-old has already sailed 440 miles around England’s south west coast to Wales, and crossed the English Channel, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.

Ambition

Natasha will command a 46ft catamaran for her ambitious ‘Atlantic Challenge’, which is due to get underway in November.

“Natasha is one of those individuals who is unwilling to accept the word ‘can’t'”.

Despite her severe form of cerebral palsy and being a wheelchair user, she told the BBC she was “so excited” at the prospect of the trip ahead.

Dad Gary said: “Every time Natasha goes out, it stuns me. It’s great to watch. We’ve sailed in so many places around the UK and it’s exciting to see her every time.”

Recognition

The youngster has not limited herself to sailing exploits. In 2014, she climbed the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, Pen Y Fan, for charity.

She said afterwards: “I just enjoy doing what I do. It’s great people get behind it, but really anyone could do it”.

Her achievements have resulted in a string of awards including the British Empire Medal.

Her website states: “Natasha is one of those individuals who is unwilling to accept the word ‘can’t'”.

Assisted suicide

Tragically, assisted suicide on grounds of cerebral palsy is currently legal in Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Switzerland and now in the Canadian province of Quebec.

In September 2019, the Superior Court of Quebec ruled it was no longer necessary for someone to be terminally ill in order for them to obtain euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Following the case, the federal Government brought forward a Bill to make assisted suicide and euthanasia even more easily available across Canada.