Katherine Bowes

Why I'm Fundraising for Day One Trauma Support

I am walking 62 miles in October, to help raise vital funds for Day One Trauma Support. Every 20 minutes someone with life-changing injuries is admitted to a UK Major Trauma Centre. Surviving these injuries is just the start. Day One are the only national charity to provide personalised care to anyone affected by any kind of catastrophic injury, their loved ones and their families – for as long it takes.

62 miles in 1 month. Doesn't sound like a lot right? For me, this will be a real challenge. What can I say, I'm feeling brave, it's time to share the impact my trauma had, and continues to have, on me.

18th November 2018. Just under seven years ago, I was involved in a hit and run accident. I suffered severe crush injuries to my left foot. That's when my journey began. Little did I know that this would change my life. Long story short - 6 major surgeries, including reconstructive plastic surgery, learning to walk again and being faced with potential amputation of my left foot on several different occasions. I was diagnosed with PTSD as well as Mixed Anxiety and Depressive Disorder. They never found the driver.

Nearly 7 years on, it's been a very long journey of healing, one which I continue to battle every day. I continue to live with not only the physical disabilities, but the psychological impact of the accident. Over time, I’ve found strength in the support of those around me (with the help of lots and lots of therapy along the way). That wasn’t always the case.

My first few years of healing were extremely lonely. It felt as though nobody really understood what I was going through. This is why charities like Day One are so important. Although I didn’t know about them when my journey began, I wish I had. Day One helps to make sure that no one has to suffer alone.

Day One do not receive any NHS or Government funding, which is why I'm taking part in Walk 62 Miles in October, so please, if you can, support my fundraiser and look into the work which Day One carry out on a daily basis.