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Veteran's Near-Fatal 1000ft Fall Recounted
25 Jan
Summary
- RAF veteran Rob Bugden survived a 1,000ft fall after a mid-air collision.
- He sustained paralysis from the neck down but has shown remarkable resilience.
- Special forces and a charity provided crucial support during his recovery.
Rob Bugden, a 40-year-old RAF veteran, has shared his astonishing story of survival after a catastrophic training accident in January 2016. While parachuting at 5,000ft, a mid-air collision with a teammate led to a devastating fall of nearly 1,000ft.
He woke up in a hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, to the reality of being paralysed from the neck down. The collision had broken his neck, and he was fortunate to land on sand. His friend, though conscious, sustained serious injuries, while Rob's unconsciousness likely saved his life.
UK special forces, who were training nearby, provided immediate assistance. After extensive operations in the US, Rob was transferred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, UK, where his long rehabilitation began. He was diagnosed as quadriplegic, with all four limbs non-functional.
Driven by stubborn determination, Rob gradually regained some movement and independence. He learned to breathe independently, regained shoulder movement, and eventually could feed himself. He also achieved milestones like managing his own catheterisation.
Today, Rob requires 24/7 care but actively participates in hobbies, supported by his dog, Denzel, and friends. The RAF Benevolent Fund played a crucial role, purchasing and adapting a home for him. Despite his altered life, Rob expresses profound gratitude for his support network.
