Five Star Treatment
I visited a family last week who told me about the wonderful time they had in London when son Shaye, now 13, collected his Bravery Award in Westminster Abbey.

Shaye was 9 when he was going to play in the cornfield near his home with a 5 year old friend. As they waited to cross the road Shaye saw a 7 ton recovery truck heading down a bank towards them. He reacted immediately and shielded his little pal with his own body, undoubtedly saving his life. His friend suffered minor injuries but as you can imagine Shaye wasn’t so lucky.

He incurred multiple injuries and was rushed to Newcastle General Hospital where he was treated for his brain injury as well as other extensive physical injuries. 4 years on Shaye attends school full time and, with the support of his dedicated family, is striving to cope with the challenges of living with an acquired brain injury.

CBITs newest Child and Family Support Project in the North East of England are now working with the family and Shaye’s Mum, Judith, says “I can’t express how chuffed we are that we now have some type of support and it’s better late than never. Like you said it can’t make up for the last 4 years and we will just look forward now”. 

The family still have vivid memories of the trip to London for the Womans Own Children of Courage Bravery awards where they attended a lunch in the House of Lords hosted by Baroness Jay. They dined with the likes of Simon Cowell and his Mother (who asked for Shaye’s autograph), Max Clifford, actors from East Enders and other TV and Sports celebrities. Tony and Cherie Blair hosted a breakfast at 10, Downing Street and to top off the three day trip they were invited to visit GMTV studios. 

Judith and Shaye enjoyed the trip with Shayes bother and sister and, as none of them had ever been to London before, or on a train come to that, they had the most fantastic time which they will never forget. I felt proud that they took the time to share their experiences and momentos of the trip with me.

It takes constant courage for all children and young people to get through every day life with an acquired brain injury and it was brilliant to hear about Shayes adventure which he describes as “SURREAL” .

Julie Young

29/11/07

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