AN APPEAL to help an elite army parachutist who has been seriously injured after a speed flying accident has already topped £30,000 - but more money is needed.
Lance Corporal Lee Crudgington, 38, has been treated for a severed aorta and broken pelvis after the incident in the south of France.
Dad-of-two Lee, who has 17 years of service and is part of the Parachute Regiment and the British Army’s elite Red Devils parachute display team, was on holiday with partner Katy when he had an accident while speed flying.
He underwent a 12-hour surgery on his pelvis, with insurers unable to cover his fees.
Soldiers’ charity Support Our Paras is trying to raise £200,000 to cover his medical fees and repatriation costs.
Lee’s wife Katy wrote on Facebook: “I don’t really have the words to write about Lee’s accident as it has been a very traumatic week for us here in France waiting patiently for Lee to regain stability.
“Lee has survived an extremely difficult injury as he severed his aorta and underwent emergency surgery, the fact he is still here to fight to the next stage is a testament to his character.
“We have and shall continue with your help to receive tremendous support from support our paras and the regiment and we are all looking forward to the next stage.”
Lee, who joined the 2 Para regiment in 2005 and served in Iraq and Afghanistan, is based at Merville Barracks in Colchester.
He is also a jump co-ordinator with the Red Devils.
Support Our Paras wrote on the fundraising page: “Lee is one of our own and family take care of each other – Support our Paras have been supporting him and his family in France, but now they need your help.
“On top of mounting foreign medical costs, Lee will need a specialist aeromedical team to fly him back to the UK, where he will undergo further surgery and start a long period of rehabilitation.
“Support Our Paras are committed to supporting Lee with his medical costs and repatriation, but would welcome any contributions towards the total.”
The fundraising page can be found at www.justgiving.com.
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