Brain injury survivor smashes £30k milestone in fundraising for Oxford Head Injury Services
Oxford Head Injury Services along with Play2Give is celebrating the extraordinary achievement of Andy Baker MBE, a long-time service user and passionate fundraiser, who has reached the remarkable milestone of raising £30,000 over the past decade. Andy’s unwavering commitment and inspirational efforts, capped by the latest proceeds from Play2Give’s annual Charity Ball last September, have left a lasting impact on Oxford’s local brain injury charity.
Andy from Didcot has been visiting Oxford Head Injury Services, every week twice a week, since the age of 23 for almost 13 years now. Andy, 36, was born with a brain injury, but then also suffered another head injury at the age of eight. This resulted in him needing further treatment and later surgery at the age of 12. Despite this, Andy fights his disability every day and dedicates himself to giving back to the organisations that have supported and helped him over the years. In 2021 he was honoured with an MBE for services to charity.
The 007-themed gala ball held at Milton Hill House was particularly special, as it saw Andy surpass his £30,000 fundraising milestone – a testament to his determination and the generosity of the local community. The funds he has raised directly support Oxford Head Injury Service’s vital work, which provides rehabilitation, support and tailored services to individuals living with the life-altering effects of brain injuries.
“Andy’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary,” said Lucy Walker, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at Oxford Head Injury Services. “He is the very spirit of resilience and generosity, not only as a fundraiser but also as a service user who truly understands the importance of our work. His efforts have made a substantial difference in the lives of so many other brain injury survivors that we support, and we are profoundly grateful.”
For Andy, reaching this milestone is both humbling and motivating. “Oxford Head Injury Services has been there for me in so many ways, and fundraising is my way of saying thank you and helping others who face similar challenges,” he shared. “The support from the community has been incredible, and together, we’ve achieved something amazing.”
Oxford Head Injury Services offers a wide range of rehabilitation programs aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals and families affected by brain injuries. From physiotherapy, occupational therapy, therapeutic activities such as cooking and games- Oxford Head Injury Services takes a holistic approach to supporting the entire family when living with live after brain injury.
Andy’s story is a poignant reminder of the power of community and the incredible impact one individual can have. OHIS extends its heartfelt gratitude to Andy and everyone who has supported his fundraising efforts over the years.