Neil's Story

Neil’s RAF career

Neil served for over 12 years in the RAF as a Senior Aircraftsman Technician, working on aircraft such as the Tornado.

“Reflecting on my time in the military now, it was so beneficial because I learned so much about myself,” says Neil.

Whilst serving in the RAF, he made incredible memories. From the camaraderie with fellow servicemen to the sense of belonging that came from being part of a team, each experience helped shaped him.

“I got to work with some incredible people, both higher up the chain of command as well as friends and colleagues of similar rank. I picked up things I never thought I would learn.”

Neil’s injury and the impact it has had on his life

After breaking his leg in August 2018, Neil's life changed significantly.

During his recovery it was discovered that he had a neuroma growing inside his leg, and as a result, he now lives with complex regional pain syndrome.

"Unfortunately, it looks like a lot of my leg is deteriorating significantly. It's progressively getting worse and in the long term amputation will be the best option to give me better mobility and an improved quality of life

"That is all I want - to be more mobile and be able to do more stuff."

How injury impacted Neil's family

Through the challenges and setbacks Neil has faced, his biggest advocate has been his wife, Lauren.

"Neil has had multiple surgeries, and that has left him with significant nerve damage that has got worse over the years,” says Lauren.

“Our lives changed overnight – and that has been very tricky.”

“Lauren sits with me at night when I’m experiencing pain and listens to me when I’m panicking about finances, or not being able to play with our daughter, Poppy.,” adds Neil.

How the Royal British Legion have supported Neil’s recovery

In 2025 we supported Neil to compete with Team UK at the Invictus Games in Canada, where he was joined by Lauren, Poppy and his parents.

Team UK training camps at RBL’s Battle Back centre in Lilleshall have been pivotal in Neil's recovery journey, helping him take part in sports he enjoyed before his injury.

In Canada, he went on to represent Team UK in Alpine Skiing and Wheelchair Basketball.

*The inspiration I took from attending the RBL Battle Back centre was a huge part of my recovery,” says Neil.

“Being able to go to Canada as a family was the first time we’d had an experience where we felt fully supported,” adds Lauren.

“I could relax and enjoy the experience because I knew there was a team around Neil that were caring for him.

“And I could see that shift in Neil where he had the motivation to push himself, and that reason to get up.”