A dad was left paralyzed after taking a swim in cold water on New Year's Eve.
Dan Richards, a seasoned cold water swimmer and avid surfer, took a plunge at Langland Bay, near Swansea, Wales, to ring in the new year.
Since the accident, Dan has been relocated closer to home but faces a lengthy journey of rehabilitation. To support his recovery and ensure the best quality of life possible, Anna has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover medical expenses and home adaptations needed for his care.
"The aim of this fundraising effort is to support Dan in this journey and give him the best quality of life possible; including helping him continue to be the best dad for his 3 year old daughter Hailey. The NHS rehab can only go so far and we know this journey is going to be life long for Dan and the people closest to him," the fundraising page states.
Tragedy struck on New Year's Eve when the 35-year-old dove into a wave, causing the force of the water to rotate him, resulting in the back of his head hitting the sand.
Recalling the terrifying moment, Dan told Sky News: "I remembered a loud noise and a very bright light before opening my eyes underwater."
Realizing he couldn't move his limbs, Dan had to hold his breath and wait for a wave to turn him so he could call out for help.
Fortunately, his partner Anna Thomas, her mother, and a friend managed to pull him from the water. He was then airlifted to Bristol Southmead Hospital, where doctors discovered he had been paralyzed from the neck down.
According to the GoFundMe description, "there will be significant costs that need to be covered; the rehab itself, travel, & adaptations to enable Dan to access his own home eventually. Dan has always been a hard worker, priding himself on his strong values about helping others.
"The financial security he had worked so hard to get will not be possible for him to maintain. Any support that will help contribute to Dan’s ability to access the best rehabilitation to meet his needs and alleviate financial worries, helping Dan on this journey to a better quality of life will be hugely appreciated."
At the time of writing, just over £38,000 ($47,800) has been raised.
In a recent update on Dan's condition, posted on January 26, Anna shared some positive news: "After what’s been a very difficult week... we have some exciting news, Dan moved his toe today! It may seem small but this is positive progress."
She expressed gratitude for the ongoing support, stating: "Dan's determination and mindset continue to impress us all... We thank you all for everything as now not only is Dan pushing for himself and his family, he’s doing this for everyone who has donated or shared the post."
We wish all the best to Dan and his family moving forward.
