For former Army physical training instructor, Tom, sport was a huge part of his personal and professional life until he suffered a severe stroke. This left Tom with limited mobility and unable to work again. The Army Benevolent Fund’s grant of £3,000 towards a bespoke wheelchair trike has transformed his fitness and independence.  

Tom grew up in Paisley and joined the Army, aged 17, eventually serving in the Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC) as an instructor. An international squash player, Tom left the Army in 1986 to work in a sports club overseas and coach squash at the highest level.  

For over twenty years, Tom and his wife enjoyed their active life abroad. But, in 2009, Tom suddenly suffered a stroke. This left him paralysed, with limited use of his right side and, initially, unable to communicate. Tom never returned to work and has difficulty walking, is often in pain, and has limited speech.

For the last five years, Tom and his wife have spent part of the year abroad, and the remainder living with a friend, Charles (Chic), and his wife. Chic, who met Tom over 40 years ago in the Army, is now Tom’s registered carer while he is in the UK. 

Fitness and sport were a huge part of Tom’s life before his stroke. But afterwards, his limited mobility made it difficult to return to the physical activities he had enjoyed. 

So, Tom was delighted when the ABF and his regimental charity offered financial support towards the cost of a wheelchair trike. This specially adapted mobility vehicle gives Tom the freedom to get out and about, meet friends and regain his fitness.  

Tom’s family and friends have seen the positive impact on his mood and independence. He was able join 12 of his former RAPTC colleagues racing in the 2025 Edinburgh Marathon, covering all 26 miles in his bespoke trike, while raising funds for the Army Benevolent Fund. 

Chic says, “Tom’s daily life has improved tenfold, and his general wellbeing and mental health have benefitted enormously.  He is happy in himself, spending time with his friends and grandchildren.” 

Tom says, “Having the trike has dramatically changed my daily life. It’s given me a means of exercise and access to areas I couldn’t venture to before.” 

Tom’s daughter says, “My father is an incredible man. He may be disabled but he’s never let that define or limit him. I want to thank the ABF and RAPTC Association for funding his trike – it has completely revolutionised his life.”