Dominic Hurley has received the British Empire Medal after raising more than £100,000 for charity following two devastating brain injuries.
The 52-year-old was honoured during a ceremony at Rotherham Town Hall in recognition of his years of fundraising and awareness work for brain injury organisations, including Headway.
Hurley suffered his first serious brain injury in 1994 after falling off a moped in Cyprus. He spent three months in a coma and doctors warned he may never walk or talk again.
Despite the grim prognosis, Hurley recovered and later went on to dedicate much of his life to supporting people living with brain injuries. He later suffered a second brain injury 10 years after the original accident.
Fundraising Journey Inspired By Recovery
Hurley said he wanted to give something back to the people who supported him throughout his recovery journey.
Over the years, he has completed numerous fundraising challenges, many involving spinning bikes at gyms and shopping centres, while also taking part in cycling events to raise money and awareness.
He has additionally written a book detailing his life story and how he overcame multiple injuries and setbacks.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Hurley said he was “totally taken aback” when he learned he would receive the medal in the New Year Honours list.
He also explained why he chose to receive the award in Rotherham instead of at Buckingham Palace, saying the town was where he had carried out most of his charity work and that it represented “something good” for the area.
‘Life Is Not Over’ After Injury
Hurley said his message to others facing injury or illness is that “life is not over”.
He added that the honour belonged not only to him, but also to everyone who had supported his fundraising efforts over the years.
Hurley was presented with the medal by Rukhsana Ismail and Hilary Chapman.
He is also set to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace later this week.
Discussion about this post