Thank you

The family and friends of motorcycle crash victim James Challenger today sent a heartfelt message of thanks to GulfWeekly readers.

The horrifically injured 29-year-old was set to fly home to the UK today after a staggering BD4,000-plus was raised in a week to help cover transportation costs.
The whole community rallied round to support the stricken quantity surveyor after GulfWeekly revealed he did not have adequate medical insurance.
His parents Graham and Angela, who flew out three weeks ago to be by his bedside, said: “We can’t thank everyone enough. We’re absolutely delighted that we are able to bring our son home. We are so pleased.”
James was catapulted 70 feet in the air when his motorbike careered out of control on Bahrain’s Budaiya Highway.
The crash on April 25 left him suffering severe swelling to the brain alongside serious internal injuries and he had to be induced into a coma.
Surgeons at the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) Hospital battled to save his life and have worked tirelessly to ensure his condition was stable enough for the six-hour flight home.
Today James was flown to Heathrow accompanied by his parents and the nurse and doctor who have been caring for him in the BDF Hospital’s intensive care unit.
James has been making steady progress and his parents said he has been able to eat soft food for the first time and was also slowly beginning to speak again.
A series of fundraising events organised by supporters were held last week. An auction on Saturday night at JJ’s in Adliya alone raised around BD4,000. Bar staff also donated the night’s tips to the cause.
Bahrain resident Debra Wakefield, who has been supporting the family and the campaign, said: “It really showed how important James is to his friends that so many people pulled together. Graham and Angela were overwhelmed by the support.”
And close friend Chris Shields added: “James’ plight touched so many people and that was so clear in the response from everyone.
“We must first thank all of the people who were involved with James’ treatment at the BDF. They have performed miracles. Also, close friends who have been so generous, it is very humbling, and all of the Associations, Irish Society, The British and Rugby Clubs and companies such as Caledonian Properties, Global Resolutions, Projects Construction, Cebarco, DHL, Al Wadhi Transport, and Mace to name but a few.
“And, all of the people who have helped with what is a complex logistical operation to transport him to his home town in Sheffield. Thank you everyone for helping our friend.”
Mohammed Murtazza, a GulfWeekly reader who donated to the cause, emailed Gulfweekly with a message of support to the family: “I am a Pakistani living in Bahrain for a long time and I wish a speedy recovery for your son.”

Exclusive
By Rosamund De Sybel
editor@gulfweekly.com