A Story to Inspire - Living with Hidden Disability

Back in 2018, Paul had surgery on his spine and was discharged home following the successful procedure. Within a few days, he was rushed back to the hospital by ambulance, critically unwell. Much to the shock, surprise, and anguish of everyone, he was diagnosed with a life threatening bowel perforation. He had to undergo life-saving emergency colostomy surgery. The consultants warned us that they didn’t know if Paul would survive. He was transferred to ITU, placed in an induced coma, and faced a huge road to recovery.

The next year was exceptionally challenging for Paul. Alongside recovering from his original spinal surgery, he had to adapt to life with a colostomy and the significant adverse effects of severe sepsis. In 2019, Paul successfully had the colostomy reversed, and in the summer of 2020, he underwent further surgery to correct some complications.

Paul lives with hidden disability from the ongoing challenges of the surgeries and illness, but he never lets these hold him back. In fact, it makes him live life even more to the full. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who worked so hard to save Paul's life, it is a debt we can never repay.

Paul is a true example of 'living life to the full.' Despite all the challenges he faces daily, including his hidden disability, he never lets anything hold him back. Instead, he chooses to embrace every moment, work hard, and travel the world with an unwavering zest for life. His determination and positivity are nothing short of inspiring.