Shaun

 
AJ.jpg

“Not having legs has become so normal for me. I have loads of allen keys scattered around my house. Putting my shoes on now is just like someone slipping into their shoes.”

“I joined the Royal Welsh Regiment at 16. Just 6 days before my tour of Afghanistan was due to end, and when I was just 19, I stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED). I lost both my legs, injured my hand and initially lost all my sight, although I now have about 30% vision in one eye. 

I was in a coma for eight weeks and had a huge number of operations. It has been particularly difficult for my family and friends but the support I received from everyone has been amazing. Early in my recovery I was transferred to Headley Court (Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre) and the team there were absolutely brilliant.

Not having legs has become so normal for me. I have loads of allen keys scattered around my house. Putting my legs on now is just like someone slipping into their shoes. I have things in place to help me, like using a magnifying glass to read things and technology helps.

When people offer sympathy, I explain that, even though it sounds strange, I don’t regret it. It has made me the person I am today. I was so young when I joined the Army but these experiences have given me so much. I travel lots and now use my story to inspire others.” 

AJ-(portrait).jpg

“When people offer sympathy, I explain that, even though it sounds strange, I don’t regret it.”


Read the other ‘Equipped for Life’ stories or return to the Exhibition Homepage

With grateful support from:-