Joey Hutchinson, aged 34, an ex-professional footballer and a father, had a similar swimming pool accident to Digby's last year and was transferred to JCUH a few days before him.
The pair progressed from ITU to HDU and ended up in Bay 1 on the Spinal Injury Unit in opposite beds. Joey was Digby's constant companion, and they, Joey's lovely family and I, shared many unimaginable experiences. There were farcical moments too, and inventive suppers, as well as the waiting and the silence of the darker hours.
As I write Joey has been re-admitted from his temporary home to hospital with complications. He is still awaiting the commencement of adjustments to his own home in order that he might be transferred there along with the 24 hour care package he requires.
Digby and I, ever conscious of the remarkable recovery he has achieved thus far, have decided to mark the anniversary of his own accident on 2/7/16 by walking to raise money to fund an EasyStand glider for Joey. This will enable him to transfer from his wheelchair more independently and to assist with upper body strengthening. Stem cell, and other, research into spinal injury rehabilitation is gathering momentum and the EasyStand glider will help Joey maintain his strength and overall health in order to maximise his chances of accessing new treatments and interventions as they become available.
Jason (mentor and friend to Digby throughout) and I and a core team will be walking the 21 mile route from home to the Spinal Injury Unit. Digby will also be walking, joining others including Joey's family, hopefully all arriving some time in the late afternoon/evening.
Any and all donations to help us reach our target would be very gratefully received.
If you would like to get involved in our Walk for Joey on 2/7/17 or would like any more information please contact me by email: sarah.guthe@btinternet.com.

http://www.easystand.co.uk/EasyStand-glider/