In 2011 Paul Westerman suffered a massive pulmonary embolism – the result of a deep vein thrombosis which was sustained in the deep veins of his lower limb after a very minor tennis injury. He managed to utter “I don’t feel too well” to his fiancé Ellisa, before collapsing.

The road to recovery has been a long one. Paul has had to accept that his life will never be the same again. He has had surgery to remove damaged veins, had years of scans and tests and still has regular visits to hospital.

Since 2011, Paul has built relationships with other survivors and their families, along with the bereaved. He has also offered his personal experience to inform changes in medical policy.

This "Just Giving" campaign is to support 2 amazing organisations. The work that each one does helps raise awareness of Thrombosis as well as how to maintain a healthy life style is so important. Quite simply, awareness saves lives, and maintaining as healthy a lifestyle as possible also supports not only individuals physical well-being, but their mental health as well.

Paul is aware that 2021 for many has been a tough time, and the struggles with finance, employment, socialising are still tough, so there's no minimum recommended donation, just donate what you can, if you can, and everyone who donates will go into the "virtual raffle hat" and be in with a chance of winning the signed Jack Russell print.

Thank you

PJW