John Nichol
13th May 2008, 15:20
Some of you might know Nigel Rogoff, an Ex-RAF PJI and RAF Falcon - This morning (Tuesday the 13th May) Nigel embarked on a personal challenge to kayak around the entire coastline of the UK - a not inconsiderable journey of some 2794 miles (4500km in new money) - it's all the more remarkable because...
On 13th December 1998, Nigel, dressed as Santa Claus, was carrying out a skydiving demonstration at the home of Aston Villa FC. During the halftime interval, and in front of 30,000 supporters, the display went dramatically – and horrifically - wrong when he hit the stadium roof then dropped 80ft from the roof to the pitch. Nigel was seriously injured and given only a 50/50 chance of survival. But thanks to expert medical treatment by specialists in Birmingham City Hospital as well as 170 units of blood he pulled through, although he subsequently had to have his left leg amputated.
Nigel has embarked on his Round-UK challenge in order to raise awareness of amputees and, just as importantly, funds for BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Service Men's Association).
Nigel left Greenwich Yacht Club this morning and plans to complete the journey in one go (apart from the obvious necessities of sleeping, eating and ablutions!). It should take around 3 months.
There is more information at:
http://www.ourjourney.co.za
On the website, you can track his progress, send a message, or if you are so inclined, and as Nigel is hoping to raise £50,000 for BLESMA, there is a link where you can donate a penny or two.
On 13th December 1998, Nigel, dressed as Santa Claus, was carrying out a skydiving demonstration at the home of Aston Villa FC. During the halftime interval, and in front of 30,000 supporters, the display went dramatically – and horrifically - wrong when he hit the stadium roof then dropped 80ft from the roof to the pitch. Nigel was seriously injured and given only a 50/50 chance of survival. But thanks to expert medical treatment by specialists in Birmingham City Hospital as well as 170 units of blood he pulled through, although he subsequently had to have his left leg amputated.
Nigel has embarked on his Round-UK challenge in order to raise awareness of amputees and, just as importantly, funds for BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Service Men's Association).
Nigel left Greenwich Yacht Club this morning and plans to complete the journey in one go (apart from the obvious necessities of sleeping, eating and ablutions!). It should take around 3 months.
There is more information at:
http://www.ourjourney.co.za
On the website, you can track his progress, send a message, or if you are so inclined, and as Nigel is hoping to raise £50,000 for BLESMA, there is a link where you can donate a penny or two.