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Tony Williams had just turned 26 when he was shot and almost died of his injuries in Afghanistan. Thanks to your kindness, our expertise and Tony’s determination he’s now inspiring other veterans and playing a vital part in his local community.
In 2010 Army Nurse, Tony, was shot in the shoulder and hip while trying to save injured colleagues under enemy fire. “The agony was unimaginable”, he recalls. “I could feel the life leaving my body. I just wanted my mum.”
Using the life-saving techniques Tony had taught them, his colleagues kept him alive until he could be evacuated by helicopter. On reaching Camp Bastion, Tony was rushed into emergency surgery. There one of the nurses who treated him was his mentor, and now Help for Heroes staff member, Duane “Fletch” Fletcher.
Back in England, Tony was told he’d never walk again or have children. But with your encouragement, our expert help and his incredible determination, he has defied the odds.
“I reached a point where I was in so much pain I thought the only solution was to have my leg amputated,” he remembers. “I was desperate and rang Help for Heroes. When the Clinical Advisor called back, a familiar voice said: ‘Tony – it’s Fletch. We can help!’
Veteran
I've got my life back
“I’ve benefited from a range of support over the years, improving both my physical and mental health.
“What Help for Heroes has given me is more than physio and a leg brace. They’ve given me my life back. Now I can play with my three beautiful daughters. I’ve established a successful business, I’m a school governor and a teaching assistant. And I walked my beautiful wife down the aisle on our wedding day.”
Raising Awareness
In 2022 Tony bravely shared his story to help us raise awareness of the importance of gifts in Wills. Since then he’s inspired thousands of people to visit our website and get in touch to find out more about leaving a legacy to help veterans and families in the future.
“For a long time I wouldn’t accept help. But when I asked, Help for Heroes said: ‘We’re here and we always will be. All you have to do is ask’.”
Veteran
Fourteeen years after that fateful day, Tony knows better than anyone how much your support means to those we serve. So when his own father passed away, Tony decided to raise money in his name and memory.
“My father was a Warrant Officer and appreciated everything Help for Heroes have done for me. Our walking challenge was in his honour, but it was also a tribute to all the families who’ve suffered.”
Veteran
If you’ve been inspired by Tony’s story, why not follow in his footsteps and find out more about commemorating your own hero through our work? Your donation, fundraiser or legacy will help your loved one’s memory live on.