A man who suffered a massive brain injury on a Christmas night out had to "learn to walk again".
Michelle Kelly, has had to care full time for her partner Tommy after he slipped on a patch of ice while on a work night out and hit his head so hard that he spent three months in a coma. The accident left Tommy, from Sefton, with a life changing brain injury, only being discharged from hospital two and a half years later.
The injury meant that Tommy had to use a wheelchair, and was unable to eat, speak, or care for himself. With the help of army physicians Steve Cairns and Si Squires, Tommy learned to walk again.
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He still deals with the lasting effects of his brain injury, including language difficulties and fatigue. Wife Michelle has devoted her time to caring for Tommy, all whilst holding down a full time job and also looking after their respective families. She also has a voluntary role at local brain injury charity Headway Sefton.
Michelle, who has been given a national award for her care of Tommy, said: "I don’t do this for any other reason than it’s what needs to be done. If I can help just one person, then I’ll do it. I was very surprised to find out I had been nominated.
"Headway Sefton has been there for us from the first day the charity opened its doors. We are like one big family, and I’m so grateful for the support network I have through Headway."
Luke Griggs, Headway’s Chief Executive, said: "You cannot fail to be moved by Michelle’s generosity. Her selfless determination to help Tommy navigate life after brain injury is incredible.
“As well as supporting Tommy, Michelle is always there to help everyone else, whether that’s through volunteering at Headway Sefton or by supporting her extended family. Michelle is an inspiration to us all.
“We are so pleased to present this award to her and to show our appreciation for all the wonderful things she does for everyone around her."
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