York Headway ball hope from cherry picker fall survivor (From York Press)

York Headway ball hope from cherry picker fall survivor

12:10pm Thursday 12th March 2009 in

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MEMBERS of a York charity are preparing to celebrate its first anniversary in style – close to the spot where one of them nearly lost his life.

Among the 100 guests expected at York Headway’s grand ball, at The Churchill Hotel in Bootham, will be Chris Cook, who was critically injured when he fell from a cherry picker outside his house in the street two years ago.

The support he received while he was recovering from his serious head injuries inspired him to help relaunch the charity, to ensure that others in his position get the support they need.

“It is a wonderful charity,” he said. “Everyone was supportive of Julie, my wife, and now me. When I go to the meetings, it is amazing how I am motivated. “I know I am different to what I was before my accident, but if you saw me now, you would think there is nothing wrong with me. It is a miracle I am here.”

He and other members of Headway meet people through the charity who know what they have gone through and the problems they encounter. They also get advice and help in overcoming those difficulties. Over the last year, they developed a unity and community support as they shared their experiences. Mr Cook praised The Churchill Hotel for its support of the charity. It stands very close to the place in Bootham where he fell from a cherry picker, and staff at the hotel know Mr Cook and what he has been through.

Already 80 people have signed up for the grand ball, on April 3, including solicitors, builders, builders merchants, accountants and financial experts.

Professor Andy Smith, of York St John University, has agreed to be a guest speaker. The charity is now hoping to build on its success in the years ahead and to raise awareness of the needs of people with head injuries and the problems they can encounter. The ball, called A Bit Of A Do, features a reception and three-course meal and will raise funds for the charity, which is supported by a variety of businesses across York.