Shaun
“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.”
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