Sergeant Gavin Harvey Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Gavin was in command of a convoy in Afghanistan during Operation Panther’s Claw when his vehicle hit an IED.
As Gavin said
“The thing is IEDs are so frequent in Panther’s Claw. It’s like playing Minesweeper without the numbers.”
“You’ve got no idea where they are. The explosion must have been quick. The blast knocked me out. I remember waking up and I had three teeth missing. I had blood in my mouth and thought I had internal injuries. I spat it out and tried to breath again.”
“I made peace with myself. I talked to myself in my head. The only thing I could think about was: “How’s Kerry going to cope without me being there?”
Gavin did survive the attack but unfortunately driver, Craftsman Anthony Lombardi was tragically killed.
Flown back to Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham, Gavin began to recover and has since received treatment at Headley Court Rehabilitation Centre with physiotherapy, psychiatric support and counselling.
During his recovery, we’ve helped out with child and pet care costs to help his wife Kerry, who’s looking after their two small daughters, Ella and Millie, whilst supporting Gavin. We’ve also given funds for brain training games to help his progress.
