Anthony Somers Benefit Fund

This is the very tragic story of a devoted husband and father of two, originally from Glengarriff, Co Cork and now living in London. Anthony Somers was a strong, fit, hardworking, healthy 38 year old before he contracted the Influenza B virus in January 2013.

The Influenza quickly developed into Hypothermia and then progressed dramatically, resulting in complete organ failure. Anthony went on to develop Critical Illness Neuropathy, a condition where the nerve endings in the hands and legs die. Sadly, in September 2013, Anthony had his left leg amputated from below the knee and in February of this year, the day before his 40th birthday, Anthony had his second leg removed. (A quote from the man himself "I got legless for my 40th"). To date, Anthony still does not have any use in his hands. He requires 24 hours a day care.

Anthony has recently been allowed to come home for 4 months. The hospital has provided him with a special bed and hoist which is set up in his dining room.

We desperately need to raise funds to carry out major modifications to his home to enable him to return on a permanent basis. Voice controlled equipment would give Anthony some independance. A modified vehicle with wheelchair access would be a massive benefit to the family. Anthony will also require home care indefinitely. His immediate priority is to acquire gyroscopic legs to give him some mobility.

Over the past 18 months Anthony has fought a tremendously brave battle especially seeing that he was given a 1% chance of survival. He has had to accept the amputation of both his legs and deal with the loss of the use in both his hands. Please, please find it in your hearts and give generously to help this family move forward with their lives.

If you would prefer to donate by cheque please make it payable to the 'Anthony Somers Trust Fund' and mail it to:

Anthony Somers Benefit Fund,
26 Dalewood,
Glengarriff,
Co. Cork
+353 87 7994883
 

Thank you very much for your support.