25 Jun 2019
Maureen Cole, Business Development Manager UK Trading Groups for UAN, is taking on the National 3 Peaks Challenge to raise funds for Deb Drew, who nearly drowned when she tried to rescue a young boy in heavy surf in North Devon.
Deb Drew had been bodyboarding at Woolacombe Beach, while on holiday with her two sons in August 2014, when she selflessly attempted to save a nine-year-old boy who had got into difficulties.
But the act of bravery left her fighting for life. Both the boy and Deb, former Vice-Chair at Stourbridge Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, were unconscious when they were pulled from the water and flown by RAF helicopter to North Devon District Hospital in Barnstaple.
The youngster is thought to have suffered kidney damage following the drama on August 26 2014, but he reportedly survived his ordeal to make a “near full recovery” according to the RNLI in North Devon.
Chances of recovery, however, looked extremely bleak for former pharmaceutical firm rep Deb, who suffered a cardiac arrest. She was later transferred to Russell’s Hall Hospital in Dudley but remained in a coma for around five months.
Against the odds, however, her condition stabilised and after prolonged treatment in brain injury rehabilitation units, her long term goal was to be able to return to the family home. Despite being wheelchair-bound, this was made possible after a care package was put in place and substantial adaptations and alterations were made to the house, funded partly by previous generous fundraising by friends and family.
However, although now home after a four-year absence, Deb faces a long battle ahead of constant physiotherapy, occupational therapy and neurological treatment. She is also heavily reliant on smart technologies to provide her with a degree of independence.
In order to raise money for much needed technological support, gym members from Stourbridge Tennis Club, including Maureen, will embark on the gruelling National 3 Peaks Challenge in July 2019. The stiff challenge is to climb the peaks of Ben Nevis, Scafell and Snowdon all within 24 hours. The expedition will be totally funded by the individuals taking part to ensure that Deb receives 100% of the money raised. The 30 strong group have already started training in order to be able to support their friend and are looking forward to raising in excess of £10,000. The money raised will be spent to provide regular physiotherapy sessions which are not available on the NHS. They also hope to help to acquire a Motability vehicle and a variety of smart technologies to foster her independence.
To support their challenge, please click here .
Best of luck Maureen!