Disability Awareness Day is on 16 July and with this in mind we have chosen Henry Fraser as our Inspirational Diversity Champion of the Month.
In 2009 at the age of just 17 Henry was injured whilst on holiday with his friends. He dived into the sea as he had done many times before, hit a sandbank and sustained major injuries to his neck, leaving him paralysed from the shoulders down. Henry was a senior prefect at his school, he was extremely fit and played rugby for Saracens RFC academy.
Henry’s road to recovery has been long and difficult but since his accident he has shown extraordinary courage and is determined to make the most of life and share his experiences with others.
He enjoys great success as a motivational speaker, delivering his ‘Pushing Myself’ talk to a number of high profile businesses and sports teams, including Saracens and England 7’s.
Henry has also become an artist, painting with his mouth, something he became interested in following his accident. He has painted many famous people and held successful exhibitions. http://www.henryfraser.org/hand-to-mouth-exhibition/
He also established Henry’s Trust, which aims to raise funds to help him achieve an independent lifestyle.
In 2016 the Rugby Players Association (RPA) awarded him the Blythe Spirit Award for his remarkable achievements http://www.henryfraser.org/honoured-to-receive-the-blyth-spirit-award-2016/
To find out more about Henry see here: