In a fateful incident on July 20, 2017, Rory’s life took an unexpected turn when a car careened onto the pavement at an alarming speed, striking him from behind and catapulting him 30ft into the road. The driver callously fled the scene, leaving Rory in critical condition.

By a stroke of luck, Dr. Matt Mak, a consultant with London’s Air Ambulance, happened to be in the vicinity of Clapham, heading to lunch, when he witnessed the horrifying accident unfold before his eyes.

Without hesitation, Dr. Matt dialled emergency services, specifically requesting the presence of London’s Air Ambulance’s advanced trauma team, fully aware of the gravity of Rory’s injuries.

Recalling the incident, Dr. Matt expressed, “It was horrific to see – almost as if time slowed down as the car mounted the pavement and threw him into the road. I actually felt helpless as I didn’t have any kit with me that I’d normally have, so all I could do was support his airway and keep his spine stable whilst waiting for the ambulance to arrive.”

Within minutes, the distinctive sound of the air ambulance rotor blades could be heard overhead, providing a glimmer of hope for Rory’s survival. The highly skilled HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) team swiftly arrived on the scene, ready to administer critical care.

Rory, who had suffered extensive injuries, including compound fractures in his left femur and right humerus, fractured vertebrae, a broken scapula, and flail chest, which resulted in a portion of his rib cage becoming detached, faced an arduous journey of physical and mental recovery.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Rory shared, “Physically, it was quite the journey. I had appointments and rehab for almost every part of the body. I am doing well, but I’m not the same person I was – I never will be – and that’s quite hard to accept. But I’m doing better at accepting my weaknesses.”

Despite the challenges he encountered, Rory’s determination to regain his strength prevailed. He diligently underwent medical procedures, including TMJ replacement surgery for his damaged jaw and received treatment for a brain bleed, which fortunately resolved itself without surgery.

Now residing in southeast London with his beloved dog, Rory has found love and is engaged to his partner, Andy. The couple is eagerly looking forward to their wedding in February, which will take place in New Zealand after a proposal in Wales.

Rory’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of medical expertise. The invaluable assistance provided by London’s Air Ambulance and the dedicated healthcare professionals has not only saved Rory’s life but has also inspired him to embrace a new chapter filled with love and hope