Louise

Bruce’s wife Louise has been by his side throughout his recovery journey. Bruce, who served in the army for 16 years, lost both legs below the knee due to injury. But as Louise explains, his determination means he doesn’t let it get in the way of living his life.

“Bruce is a determined character. When he puts his mind to something that’s it, he’s going to do it. I think it’s this mindset that has really helped him with everything he’s been through.

“When he was in the army, he suffered with pain in his feet for a long time. He had plantar fasciitis, which eventually meant he couldn’t go out on tour. He had operations to try and fix it, but nothing worked and in the end he was on painkillers all the time, sleeping night and day, and very depressed.

“We were struggling financially at the time too. At that point we didn’t know if Bruce would be medically discharged for good and if we’d have enough money to pay the bills. In the end, we had to sell our house and move in with my mother. I became Bruce’s carer as well as his wife and was struggling with my own anxiety and depression. It was a really stressful time.

“Bruce made the decision to have the amputations. He wanted to be off the medication and he wanted his life back. It was a difficult decision but it changed everything. Straight away, with the pain gone, he wanted to get into fitness so that he could get about on his new prosthetics more easily. That’s where Help for Heroes stepped in.

“Through the charity, Bruce was introduced to wheelchair rugby and they even helped to fund a specially adapted wheelchair so that he could play. The rugby has been so good for him – it’s helped him stay active and I know he enjoys being around other veterans. Playing regularly has encouraged him to be active in other ways too –  he’s adapted his mountain bike by adding magnetic pedals that his prosthetics stick to. The first time he used it was a really special moment for us both in his recovery. I have a bike too and it means we can just go out and do something nice together.

“And Help for Heroes have been there to support me too. Through the charity’s Band of Brothers and Band of Sisters Fellowship groups I’ve both been able to take part in fun activities and meet with other families. We’ve even got involved in some of the activities as a whole family, as we’ve taken both our mothers along to some of the meet ups! Having that support network has been really important for us both.

“Our journey isn’t over. At the moment, Bruce is waiting for a new operation to adjust one of the bones in his leg, which is causing some problems and means he can’t wear his prosthetic for long periods of time. He also uses a wheelchair when he’s not on his prosthetics, and as he gets older we know he will be in it more and more. And he’s got strong arms now, but one day they will weaken, which will make it harder for him to get himself in and out of his chair.

“They’re all things we need to think about. But his determination, and the ongoing support of Help for Heroes, will help us through.”

Find out more about Bruce and Louise's journey.

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