Beneficiaries' stories - Case studies 25 - 30

A very brave young man

Daniel Everett is an example of the way in which the EEIBA helps those in need. Soon after he left school, he started a three year apprenticeship with electrical contractor Bloom and Wake in Outwell, near Wisbech.

But in December 2002, disaster struck when he was involved in an accident on his scooter whilst travelling home from work.

With a right leg so badly damaged that he would have had to spend the rest of his life in a wheelchair, Daniel took the brave decision to have his leg amputated, he said, "I didn't want to be in a wheelchair because people treat you differently.

I also wanted to retain my independence, as this is really important to me." Daniel was determined to return to work as soon as possible and only missed three months, returning to his job in March 2003: "I did manage to attend college throughout the time I was off work because I didn't want to fall behind in my studies.

I also wanted to get back to a normal life as soon as possible and because of this I put everything I had into getting better."

Although a certain amount of help is available through the NHS, Daniel needed to raise £20,000 for a private leg, - this would be far more suited to his needs, he says: "In some respects the actual recovery was easier than raising the money, although once we started fundraising I realised that people like the EEIBA can be extremely kind.

A friend at work mentioned that he had spoken to the EEIBA and that because they help people within the industry there was a possibility that they would be able to donate some money. After a phone call to my employer, a cheque for £1,000 arrived which was fantastic.

But that wasn't all because they were also able to give me some valuable advice about setting up special bank accounts etc - all of which helped us to achieve our goal."

Now thanks to the help of the EEIBA and other benefactors, he is able to enjoy and lead a full and happy life. Helping people like Daniel get back on his feet is part of the ethos of the EEIBA, which is a tribute to the early founders who set up the Association for exactly this reason.

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