Paul Phillips from Harpenden, paralysed in a car crash two years ago, says 'life is better than ever'

Paul Phillips is a high level tetraplegic as a result of the accident, during which he broke his neck and seriously damaged his spinal cord leaving him paralysed from the chest down with limited arm movement and no hand movement.

Paul said: "I spent a long time very depressed, I didn't go out to see family or friends.

"I really want to raise awareness about the charities that have helped me understand my situation, help fund essential equipment and changed my life from being badly depressed to actually more happy as I am now then when I was able bodied and doing normal every day things."

The Tuffnells way resident was driving with a friend near nomansland in Wheathampstead late at night when the accident happened in November 2012.

After spending nine months in hospital, first of all intensive care at St Marys Hospital Paddington, then Stanmore Hospital, Paul returned home on July 19 last year - the same day as his 21st birthday.  

Paul continued: "This accident very nearly took my life. 

"I was depressed for months after the accident. I was grieving. Then I took action and went on a multi activities course, which changed my life. 

"It showed what I could do and the life I could have - and that my life was not only just because I was in a chair. I know now that I can do absolutely anything, and just need some extra help. I found a way to be happy."

During the week long course in the Lake District, run by The Back Up Trust, Paul took part in sailing, kayaking and camping activities. 

The Harpenden Trust, based in Southdown Road, funded equipment that allowed Paul to be discharged form hospital while adaptations were made to his house.

In addition, the charity funded a chair lift for his dad, who last year had a stroke leaving him wheelchair bound.

The Paul Bush Foundation has funded a wheelchair that will allow Paul to lead a "happier life", doing things he used to do including walking the dogs off-road.

The Amateur's Trust, based in Harpenden, and Aspire were also influential in Paul's recovery. 

Paul continued: "It has been a long process to get to where I am now. 

"I would like to thank all these charities for helping me. Without the help I've had from them my life wouldn't be as good as it is now. 

"My family, friends and neighbours have all been amazing - especially the two Joan's in Tuffnells way, one of which, Joan Sykes, who sadly passed away before I was well enough to be able to thank her."

Paul, who used to be a carpenter, is now working with some of the charities that helped him, and has been into schools to give talks in order to "give back". He is still undergoing physiotherapy and occupational therapy and plans to go to college next year to train to become a councillor.