Help Lee adapt to his new life

Lee’s story

Lee Francis, from South Wales, has dedicated 18 years of his professional life to assisting others in their recovery and rehabilitation as a community occupational therapist. Lee specialises in children’s disabilities and is a well loved member of the community in going above and beyond to help others with disabilities. He never thought that he would be needing this support for himself, now being permanently paralysed.

Tragically, Lee's life took an unexpected and devastating turn. Lee and his wife Clare were visiting his daughter in Thailand and became the victims of a motorcycle freak accident. This occurred on their final day, where the road condition caused them to collide into a metal barrier. Lee sustained a multitude of injuries including broken ribs, a fractured spine in three places and severe contusions to the lungs. He was then admitted to ICU where his condition worsened developing a pneumothorax, haemothorax and a pulmonary embolism which significantly impacted his treatment for his spine. After a week of trying to save his life, he underwent spinal decompression surgery which he hoped would save his legs. However, this life-altering event has left Lee with a complete spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis from the waist down, faced with immense physical and emotional challenges that he never could have anticipated. Clare suffered facial trauma which resulted in concussion and deep abrasions on her face and on her body. She continues daily to recover and is a vital support for lee on his journey.

Despite the unimaginable obstacles he now faces, Lee's resilience and determination shine through. Lee is now continuing his treatment in UHW, where he will remain in hospital for several months in recovery and rehabilitation. He refuses to let his disability define him, and with the right support and adaptations to his home and vehicle, he believes he can regain a sense of independence and continue making a difference in the lives of others.

We have established this GoFundMe campaign as a lifeline for Lee, aiming to raise the funds required for home and vehicle adaptations that will enhance his quality of life. Lee's current living situation poses significant challenges to his daily life. The home he once navigated effortlessly now presents numerous barriers that hinder his mobility and independence. Your generous donations, no matter the amount, will play a vital role in making these adaptations possible.

We extend our deepest gratitude for your empathy, generosity, and support. Please share this campaign within your networks, amplifying our collective effort to bring positive change to Lee's life. Together, we can rebuild his independence, inspiring others to never lose sight of their own strength in the face of adversity.

From all the family, thank you so much for taking the time to read Lee’s story.