2024
The Blesma News for 2024 covering news, activities and fundraising events for limbless veterans.
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Ryan Thomas served in the Royal Navy when his aorta ruptured, causing a life-changing stroke
8 May 2024
Ryan Thomas was a Surgeon Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy when his aorta ruptured causing a life-changing stroke. his wife, Liz, left her career to steer their young family through whatever came next. Fast, cool and wow!” Ryan Thomas’ face lights up with a smile as he recalls the sweeping runs of La Plagne and the challenge of improving his sit-ski technique. “The food and hotel were great, too. It was all so good.” Ryan has aphasia so his speech is not fluent, but the joy that radiates from him as he talks is obvious. He has recently come back from Blesma’s s
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Remembering Henry Wuga: Hope and humanity always shine through
26 March 2024
We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Henry Wuga, who has passed away at the age of 100. From escaping Nazi Germany to his arrest in the UK for being a spy, Henry Wuga experienced a great deal in the 100 years he was alive. Henry will be greatly missed by Blesma and all those who knew him. The windows of Henry Wuga's home rattled and the air pulsated with shouts and offensive songs as the Nazi stormtroopers marched through the streets below. 15-year-old Henry and his family watched wide-eyed as a savage frenzy descended
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How Blesma is helping Ukraine’s limbless veterans
15 March 2024
Several Blesma Members have spent time with wounded Ukrainian soldiers to
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Half Marathon and Marriage on the horizon for Blesma Member Russ Kirby
14 February 2024
Blesma Member RUSS KIRBY IS PUTTING IN THE MILES to raise funds for Blesma and to get in shape for his wedding this summer. The former Royal Navy man is running the London Landmarks Half Marathon in April and is getting married to Sarah Deans, a former member of the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps, in June. “I wanted to do something for Blesma, but I also need to get myself fit for the big day,” said Russ, 62, who served on HMS Antrim before a motorbike accident cut his military career short when he was just 20 years old.
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