Fundraiser launched to help bike crash teenager

Family and friends say an electric wheelchair would be big boost for Brandon

Family and friends of a teenager left temporarily paralysed after a serious motorbike crash have launched a £600 appeal to buy him an electric wheelchair.

Brandon Williams was taken to Ninewells Hospital on Sunday after he was involved in a collision with a car on Camperdown Road, Dundee. He sustained a shattered pelvis, a spinal fracture and a broken arm and ribs.

The injuries have left the 19-year-old temporarily paralysed, and doctors have told Brandon’s family he will have to learn to walk all over again.

The learning process could take as long as a year, most of which Brandon will have to spend in a wheelchair.

Brandon’s friend Lennon Campbell, who was out with him when the accident happened, said: “I was about 100 yards or so behind him at the time. I saw my pal go flying in the air. People came out of their houses and someone called an ambulance. I sat next to him and waited for it. He kept slipping in and out of consciousness and I thought he was going to die. It was really traumatic.”

The 17-year-old said an electric wheelchair would be a tremendous help to his friend. He added: “If we could raise money for a chair it would be amazing. He’s going to have to learn to walk again, so having that chair would be great.”

Brandon’s sister Lisa has also asked people to support the fundraiser. She said: “He’ll be in hospital for at least three months. He’s OK, although obviously he’s in a lot of pain and it’s had a really big emotional impact on him.

“He’s only 19 and he likes to go out with his pals, so not being able to do that really has him down.

“It’s really hard to watch him like this and see what he’s going through. He’s scared he won’t ever be able to get out with his friends again. He doesn’t want to be a burden and be pushed around in a chair for the rest of his life.”

Lisa says the support her brother and the family received has been “overwhelming”. She said: “I remember hearing him speaking to his friend on a call, and when he mentioned he might be able to get an electric wheelchair his spirits were lifted. He just wants a bit of his independence back. It would mean the world to us if people could give some money and help in any way they can.”

A 19-year-old has been charged in connection with road traffic offences.

To contribute to the fundraiser, search for “Help Brandon get around until he can walk again” on gofundme. com

Brandon Williams recovering in hospital after the crash.

Brandon being put on a stretcher.