The company decided to fundraise for Headway after we supported Yard Shift Leader, Daniel Mole, with the consequences of his brain injury.
Daniel collapsed at home after a aneurysm ruptured in his brain in January, 2017.
He underwent emergency surgery but following complications suffered a stroke and was left in coma. When he awoke, he was unable to walk, talk, or care for himself. His right side was paralysed and he also had significant cognitive and memory issues.
After making excellent progress, and with intensive support, Daniel, 28, has now been able to return to work and live with the effects of his injury – which still include mobility and memory problems.
Each time GBRf are due to change charities, they ask its employees to nominate worthwhile causes. Daniel’s colleagues were deeply affected by what happened to him and it brought home how anyone can suddenly be struck down by a brain injury. Around 12 staff nominated Headway, the largest vote for any one charity GBRf has ever had.
Daniel said he was delighted to find out GBRf was picking Headway to support during 2018. He said: “I was over the moon when I heard they had picked Headway because it has provided me and my partner with so much advice and support.
“It is also great because it is helping to raise awareness of the effects of brain injury and that is really important to me.
“So many people are not aware about brain injury and all the issues around them, so I’m extremely happy the company have decided to support the great work Headway do.”
John Smith, Managing Director of GB Railfreight, said: “Everyone at GB Railfreight is delighted at the progress that Daniel has made since his illness, which took us all by complete surprise.
"He is an extremely highly valued member of the team and when we heard what had happened to him we immediately wanted to be able to help him in the best way we could.
“He, like everyone who works at GB Railfreight, is part of the family, and when one of our colleagues needs it, we all pull together for them.
“We are especially grateful as well to the assistance that Headway has provided for Daniel, and are proud that they are one of our charity partners for 2018.
"Hopefully, through Daniel’s experience, GB Railfreight will be able to make a contribution to the work they do and help more people get on with their lives after severe head trauma.”
Jo Plant, Director of Fundraising, said: “Daniel is a shining example that with the right help, at the right time, there can be life after brain injury.
“We are delighted that GBRf have chosen Headway to be its charity of the year. Their fantastic support will make a huge difference to our work and ensure the charity can help even more people who have to live with the often devastating consequences of brain injury.”
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