I’ve spent my life doing all sorts of things. I started as a carpenter but ended up in so many different roles. From being a chef, technician, fisherman, classic car restorer, welder, to becoming a builder. I’ve always been hands-on, always busy. Then, in an instant, everything changed.
On the 26th of August 2024, I was in a motorbike accident. I don’t remember much, but I know I was left with an unstable injury to my C3 and C4 vertebrae, plus fractures in my T3, T4, and T5. My family was told I might not make it or that if I did, I’d be permanently paralysed from the neck down. I was in surgery for 13 hours while they worked to stabilise my spine. No one knew what the outcome would be.
For months, I lay in a hospital bed, unable to move, speak, eat, or drink. I was on a ventilator, trapped in my own body. Slowly, things began to change. Bit by bit, I regained movement. I went from being completely paralysed to being able to walk again. It’s not the same as before though. I get exhausted easily, and my hands, arms, and feet still have pins and needles and reduced feeling. People see me standing and assume I’m fine, but the truth is, I don’t feel fine.
I was in hospital for six months, 1.5 hours away from home in Swansea. My partner was by my side, but I could see how much it was affecting her too. We try to stay positive, but it’s been tough for the both of us.
Then, in December, I found Horatio’s Garden. I wish I’d discovered it sooner. After being stuck indoors for so long, just being able to be outside with a cup of tea and chat with my family and friends felt like a small bit of normality. The volunteers were always so kind, and the homemade cakes were something to look forward to.
One day, I tried making a mosaic tile. It was hard work, but it helped take my mind off the pain. That kind of distraction is rare when you’re living with an injury like this. I missed out on the live music because of my physio sessions, which was a shame, but just knowing there were things happening in the garden made a difference.
Now, I’m preparing to go home. In the short term, I know it’s going to be an adjustment figuring out how to live with these injuries outside of hospital. Long term, I hope things will continue to improve. I have to believe that they will.
My biggest fear is falling, hurting myself again, and ending up back in hospital. But I also know that I’ve come a long way since August. The journey hasn’t been easy, but places like Horatio’s Garden have made it that little bit better.
To anyone else going through something similar, spend time outside when you can. Listen to the birds, feel the fresh air. It might not change what’s happened, but it does make things a little easier to bear.
Horatio’s Garden has been a source of comfort during this difficult time. It’s a truly special place.
