‘I took life for granted – but now I can inspire others’

She recalls: “There were days when I didn’t know how I’d cope. But I tried not to wallow and think – ‘Why me?’ Sometimes I felt angry and depressed. I was frustrated at losing my independence and having to rely on people to do things.

“Gradually I learnt to use prosthetic hands and legs to do simple tasks. I was desperate to learn how to use my phone so I could keep in touch with my friends. Doctors Velcroed my phone to one arm and I used a hook on the other to type.

“Then I learnt to brush my teeth and hair. It was difficult and I’d get angry. But I was determined to stay positive.”

Two months later Aimee went back home to live with her parents. She recalls: “Friends struggled to know how to act around me, which was hard.

“I had physiotherapy to help build up my strength so I could get around more easily. I also used a wheelchair and crutches.”

Just as she began to cope with life with her injuries, Aimee’s relationship with her boyfriend Ben broke down. She says: “It was difficult for my ex to accept what had happened and we broke

TURNING POINT

But it proved to be a turning point in Aimee’s recovery.

She says: “I’d been so worried about my relationship, it gave me a chance to concentrate on me.”

Aimee moved into her own specially-adapted house in January 2015. She says: “I’ve learnt to do my own make-up, cook and even hosted a dinner party for friends.”

And last January, Aimee also found love with English teacher Stephen. She says: “A friend encouraged me to join online dating sites, being open about my injuries. It’s not easy for someone like me to walk into a bar and meet someone. I lacked confidence.

“But as soon as I met Stephen we clicked – and he has completely accepted my injuries. Our sex life is great as he makes me feel so confident. I was worried about letting Stephen see my body, but he made me feel so comfortable, those nerves soon faded.”

Aimee – who hopes to have children one day and is studying to be a social worker – is looking forward to the future and loves being a motivational speaker.

She says: “My life is so much fuller now – I aim to walk a 5k, love kayaking and drive my own car. I don’t take things for granted. My motivational speaker work makes me feel I’m helping others, too. My life was good before – but now I’m happier than ever.”