Conway Powell is a regular customer at our Mobile Equipment Service's newest venue - Waltham Cross. And there's no chance of missing Conway! The 63-year-old ex-biker lost his right leg above the knee in a road traffic accident in 1998 and now rides around in a customised electric scooter, complete with wing mirrors, saddle bag and a number plate reading 'SMIDSY.'
'I 'died' five times, was in a coma for seven weeks and spent a total of 14 months in hospital, 12 of those confined to bed,' Conway explained.
'I tell everyone that I used to be 6ft, 6ins and now I’m 4ft, 8ins, because that’s my height in a wheelchair.'
And the number plate? 'That stands for Sorry Mate I Didn’t See You!'
STAFFORD BLAKE
When Stafford Blake had a brain haemorrhage in 2004, driving a car again was the last thing on his mind.
Stafford, known to everyone as Jim, was in Perth, Australia, ironically visiting a sick relative, when he was hospitalised for four months.
On his return to England he was determined to get back on the road. In 2007 he contacted HAD's Mobility Centre and booked a driving assessment with David Wooder.
'The advice and assistance David gave me was really appreciated,' Stafford explained. 'I was extremely apprehensive about the day and not sure how the assessment would be carried out. But David and all the staff at HAD were tremendous - really pleasant and helpful.'