National Law Firm Sponsor Inspirational Skiing Excursion

A Gloucestershire man left paralysed from the neck down following complications during hospital treatment for meningitis ten years ago is gearing up for the skiing trip of a lifetime with the help of national law firm Irwin Mitchell.

Jonathan Brough, 29, from Minchinhampton, contracted bacterial meningitis during his gap year in Canada in February 2007 while he was undertaking an 11-week course to become a ski instructor.

However, complications during his treatment left him tetraplegic with no movement or feeling below his neck, with his condition meaning he also requires a ventilator and full-time care in specially adapted accommodation. Sadly, he was also diagnosed with liver cancer in November 2015, for which he has been receiving treatment and close monitoring.

Despite the immense challenges he has faced, Jonathan has always been determined to get out on the slopes once again and his dream is set to come true in April this year when he will head on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Chamonix, France.

Law firm Irwin Mitchell, inspired by Jonathan’s determination, is sponsoring his excursion.

As well as running annual campaigns based around the message of Safety on the Slopes, the legal experts’ Don’t Quit Do It initiative promotes the positive impact that disability sport has on so many lives.

Cheryl Palmer-Hughes, specialist serious injury lawyer in Irwin Mitchell’s International Personal Injury team, said: 

Expert Opinion

Despite the incredible difficulties that Jonathan has faced across the past ten years, he has shown a huge amount of courage time and time again to overcome a number of obstacles.

His determination to once again get involved in skiing is truly inspirational and it reflects just how important being active and involved in sport can be to those with disabilities.

We are absolutely delighted to lend our support and feel that he undoubtedly embodies the true spirit of our Don’t Quit Do It campaign. We truly wish him all of the best. Cheryl Palmer-Hughes - Partner and Head of our International Serious Injury Desk

Speaking about his upcoming trip, Jonathan Brough said: “I have always believed that my disability does not define me and have been determined to show that, whether that is through completing my degree at Plymouth University or any of the fundraising challenges I’ve been involved in.

“While there may have been times where I thought I would never ski again, I am really looking forward to getting back out onto the slopes to experience what it is like once more.

“I’d like to thank Irwin Mitchell for their ongoing support and their sponsorship which has gone some way to ensuring that this very special trip is possible.”