Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
Alec Williams, a 61-year-old from Cardiff, endured a traumatic brain injury following a violent incident at a nightclub that left him struggling to recall even his wife’s name. In 2003, Mr. Williams was forcibly thrown down a staircase and onto the pavement by a bouncer, who later pled guilty to grievous bodily harm and received a one-year prison sentence. The attack resulted in a fractured skull and brain hemorrhage, requiring Mr. Williams to be placed on life support. Since then, the former electrician has been unable to work or drive.
Reflecting on the impact of the injury, Mr. Williams shared how his condition drastically changed his life. “I’d gone from being an electrician, in charge of about 30 people, to suddenly not knowing my wife’s name,” he explained. He also recounted the confusion caused by memory loss, saying, “I couldn’t remember that my dad had died so I was angry because he hadn’t come to visit me in hospital.” Acknowledging that some of his memories may never return, Mr. Williams expressed that he had to “start a new life.”
Volunteering with Headway, a charity that supports individuals affected by brain injury, has played a crucial role in Mr. Williams’s recovery and sense of purpose. Over the past two decades, he has dedicated his time to helping others with brain injuries by encouraging social interaction and skill development. “It is so important to me. I get so much out of it. It’s helped me with my brain injury too,” he stated. He emphasized the isolation many with brain injuries feel, saying, “When you have a brain injury, you think you’re the only person it’s ever happened to.” Volunteering, he noted, opened his eyes and transformed his life.
Mr. Williams has been recognized for his commitment and impact as a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year category at Headway’s annual awards. Rebecca Pearce, chief executive of Headway Cardiff and South East Wales, nominated him, highlighting “the obstacles and personal battles Alec has had to fight.” She praised his exceptional dedication, describing him as “integral to the charity” and someone who can always be counted on to warmly welcome new members, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.