A north-east man brought to the brink of death by a virus caused by a common cold has raised thousands of pounds for those who helped bring him back to health.
Hundreds of people showed up to a fundraiser organised by Derek Ledingham, who decided to thank the staff who nursed him back to health after being diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS).
Mr Ledingham, of Portlethen, was diagnosed with the virus – which attacks the nervous system – in March 2014 after waking up unable to move his arms or legs. Within days had lost control of his body and was in ARI’s intensive care unit.
His ordeal lasted about 14 months and he has only recently started walking independently and has started up again at his job as a graphic designer.
On Friday, the 42-year-old held a race night at the RUA Club in Aberdeen in aid of the hardworking medical staff at Woodend Hospital’s neuro-rehabilitation unit (NRU) and the city’s Horizons Rehabilitation Centre.
The event – which also included a disco, buffet and auction, raised between £2,500 and £3,000.
Yesterday he said: “I am very happy with that. Hopefully it will help be able to help buy some equipment. If I can help even one person I am happy.
“People have done amazing things after coming back from GMS but it is a long road to get there. Two out of 10 people don’t make a recovery because some things don’t work with their body, that is the depressing thing. You never know how bad it is going to hit you.
“Every penny helps and GMB doesn’t discriminate, it can attack anyone at any time. It is just the nature of the thing.”
Mr Ledingham also paid tribute to the staff at NRU, adding: “The nurses there, if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be in the position I am I now.”
Funds raised for NRU would go towards the renovation of its on-site garden, where Mr Ledingham enjoyed some time away from his hospital bed. Some of the money raised will also be donated to GBS charity, Gain.