A FORMER Redditch Rugby Club player who suffered life changing injuries in a match against Cannock has defied the odds after being told he had just a one to three per cent chance of walking again.
Ashley Mooney suffered a broken neck and spinal cord injuries in a game last year which saw a number of Redditch players injured.
He lost the use of both hands and from his chest down and was referred to the specialist spinal injury rehabilitation unit in Oswestry.
But after 12 months of hard work, tenacious Ashley is now able to walk and train at the gym.
Ashley runs his own business, ASM Developments, a landscaping and roofing company in Redditch, and is a retained firefighter with Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service.
As well as playing rugby for Redditch the talented three quarters player has represented England in the Fire Service rugby team.
He has continued to be supported by his wife Victoria, stepson Blake, mum Vanda and his siblings Abbie and Luke as well as the wider rugby family.
After Ashley was injured a major fund-raising drive was launched to help him and his family face an uncertain future.
The current total is just over £42,000.
Ashley said: “One year today everything changed.
“This injury has shown me so much, most of all how short an precious life is, enjoy it.
“Thank you to everyone who showed me so much love and support when the chips were down. I love you all.”
Visit gofund.me/145222d6 for more information and to donate.
