|
 Private
Scott Meenagh from C Company, 2nd Battalion The Parachute
Regiment, was on a cross-mountain patrol in Afghanistan on 25
January 2011 when he stepped on a low-metal IED and sustained
severe injuries, including the loss of both legs below the knee,
wounds to his lower back and internal injuries.
Despite suffering from life-changing injuries, Private Meenagh
has an admirable outlook on life:
“I’ve never been so alive in my life,” he said. “I feel so
positive. A lot of people went through a lot when I was out
there and one of my friends was killed trying to save my life,
so I need to take advantage of everything. It’s amazing. I’ve
never felt so motivated, everything is such a challenge and
everything is so exciting.
“I think my dad will be proud of me as he’s a gardener himself.
I’ve never taken an interest in gardening, but now life’s at a
lot slower pace for me, so I’ll be able to help him and take a
new interest in it. My wee garden will be looking good when I
eventually get home.”
As a double amputee, Private Meenagh welcomes the physical
challenge the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre at Headley
Court gardening project offers:
“The ramp outside the greenhouse is the most undulating that
I’ve ever walked on. It really is a challenge, but I’m taking it
in my stride, literally. Actually standing still is an effort
for me as I have to use my core and my hips, so I’m constantly
tensed up and always wake up sore. It is hard, but you get used
to it and this is an opportunity to do something therapeutic.
“Obviously we’ve all been through traumatic experiences and you
do think about it. I think about it every day and it affects me,
so actually coming away and having a new interest is helpful.” |
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