Hull man fighting to regain grip in his hands after…

“His resilience and fighting spirit became clear to everyone around him” A Hull man on a routine journey to work had his world turned upside down in an instant. Richard Russell, fondly known as ‘Rigzy’, was commuting to London at around 4am on Monday 6th December 2021 when his van left the A15 in North Lincolnshire and crashed into several trees. Humberside Fire and Rescue Service said at the time that a man was “badly trapped” inside the vehicle. Richard underwent emergency roadside surgery and was then rushed to hospital. After major surgery, his family – including his wife and three children – received the devastating news he was likely paralysed from the neck down and might never speak or eat solid food again. However, friend Tom McCarthy, 40, said Richard’s determination “never wavered”. Despite contracting both COVID-19 and pneumonia, he regained some movement in his arms. “Rigzy spent 12 months at the highly respected spinal unit at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield, where his resilience and fighting spirit became clear to everyone around him,” said Tom. He added: “Today, his progress is nothing short of remarkable. While the challenges remain significant, Rigzy has defied expectations. “He has regained some movement in his arms and is now able to navigate independently in a motorised wheelchair. His journey continues, with ongoing physiotherapy and the unwavering support of his family – who remain the driving force behind his strength and positivity.” Tom, who first met Richard in Year 10 at Wolfreto…
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