I was extremely lucky to survive a helicopter mid-air collision at night while on operations in 1992.  Unfortunately, the crew and passengers on the other helicopter all died.  My injuries included extensive damage to head, right shoulder, right arm, spine and right leg along with being unconscious for 5 - 6 days, however, I was hugely fortunate to be alive.  After the crash I was told that I may suffer permanent brain damage, possibly never regain dexterity of my right arm and hand, may not be able to walk properly and probably always walk with a limp and would certainly never return to flying. 

I was also fortunate, in that my family and friends all believed in me and supported me.  I spent a year in hospital and at the Defence Military Rehabilitation Unit, Headley Court.  It took me 11 months of literally blood, sweat and tears, however, I managed to regain my full flying category.  It spurred me on to become a helicopter instructor in order to further flight safety and teach young aviators.  I regained my full operational medical category, allowing me to serve alongside the US Marine Corps in 2010 and 2011 in Helmand Province.  

Operating within the aviation operations cell, I was able to assist and help in the main role which is casualty evacuation.  Sometimes 20 - 30 times a day UK and US aircraft would extract injured troops often involving injuries requiring amputation, sometimes triple amputations.  

Over the years we have supported Help for Heroes in assisting the medical treatment of these wounded, I am now seeking to support Walking With The Wounded (WWTW).  WWTW aims to rehabilitate personel and train them to reintegrate with society and give them a second chance in a career that works around their disability. 

I count myself as hugely lucky to have returned to my previous role, however, others are not so fortunate and have to cope with permanent disability.  Although my injuries still 'play up' I am seeking to run the Longmynd Hike, 80kms with climbs totalling 8000ft, in order to raise funds for WWTW.  My main aim is that I will never have to see anyone injured on operations begging in the street as has happened before in the history of our country.  Please support WWTW.