Remember Those Who Have Sacrificed So Much

Alex’s experience of losing a limb is one that few can imagine. Serving in Afghanistan, Alex was stationed at a remote patrol base when it came under attack. While providing cover from a roof, a devastating case of friendly fire altered his life forever: an American Apache attack helicopter, operating on incorrect coordinates, opened fire on his position.

Hit by an explosive-tip round, the blast threw Alex from the roof.

I remember a massive flash and then falling off the roof. I tried to stand up but couldn’t. My hands were in fists – I couldn’t move my fingers – so I was digging my elbows into the ground to try and crawl to safety. Several of my fingers were hanging off.

Dragged to safety under fire, Alex was flown back to England and placed in a medically induced coma. When he awoke, the heartbreaking reality set in, he had lost a comrade in the attack, and he had to make the difficult decision to have his leg amputated.

During his long recovery, Alex was introduced to Blesma. He was connected with a community of fellow injured veterans facing similar challenges. Blesma gave Alex the opportunity to push his limits through activities like whitewater rafting, while also funding fishing gear so he could return to his favorite hobby – restoring a crucial sense of mental and physical wellbeing.

Even now, 17 years after losing his leg, Blesma remains by Alex’s side.

Getting in and out of the shower was still a challenge for Alex, but when he turned to his local council for support, little was given. Stepping in where others couldn't, his Blesma Support Officer, Christine, secured funding and installation for a fully accessible wetroom, restoring his safety and independence at home.

Blesma supports limbless veterans for life. Your donation ensures injured veterans like Alex never have to face life's challenges alone. Please donate to Blesma this Remembrance.