Liam Coffill, from Watford, in Hertfordshire, had been cycling to work when he was hit from behind by a van. He was just 25 at the time.

He underwent emergency surgery at St Mary’s Hospital in London, where doctors confirmed a severe spinal cord injury that left him with no sensation below his abdomen. He will rely on a wheelchair for life.

Following the crash, his colleagues, along with friends and even strangers, set about raising funds that would prove vital in the early stages of Liam’s recovery. Meanwhile,fellow firefighters also told him that his Fire Brigades Union (FBU) membership entitled him to legal support. “I had no idea,” he said. “You assume union membership is for work issues. I didn’t realise it would cover something like this. That advice proved pivotal.”

Through his FBU membership, Liam accessed specialist legal support from Thompsons Solicitors, who quickly coordinated a rehabilitation team around him. An early interim payment gave him access to specialist treatment, clinical support and essential equipment at a critical stage in his recovery.

His case has now settled, securing lifelong care, further rehabilitation, specialist equipment and suitable accommodation - and thanks to his FBU membership, he retained 100% of his seven-figure compensation payment, saving him thousands which can now be spent on his ongoing recovery.

The driver of the van is being prosecuted for causing serious injury by dangerous driving, with trial listed for September 2026.

Despite the scale of his injuries, Liam is determined to rebuild his life. A lifelong sportsman, he has returned to sport through wheelchair racing at the Wier Archer Academy. “This can happen in a second. People need to understand the long‑term impact,” he said.

“Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day is a chance to highlight the realities of spinal cord injury and the importance of having the right support. The help I’ve received has allowed me to become fully independent again.”

Sam Hemsley, a Partner and Head of Serious Injury at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “This was a life-changing injury caused in an instant. What matters is making sure people get the right support straight away, with specialist lawyers who can implement a package of specialist rehabilitation, expert care and financial security.

“Through his union membership, Liam was able to access that immediately, and that early intervention has been crucial.

“Ahead of Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day, we’re reminded of the realities of living with these injuries and the need for stronger support. Liam’s determination to rebuild his life, while advocating for others, is truly inspiring. It has been a privilege for the Thompsons team to support him and witness his resilience. His journey highlights how vital the right support is from day one - something everyone with a spinal injury deserves to rebuild their life.”

FBU General Secretary, Steve Wright, added “The Fire Brigades Union is proud to have Liam as a member and his determination in the face of such adversity is an inspiration to us all. Through his union membership and the specialist skills of our legal partners, Thompsons solicitors, he has been able to achieve important support and access to justice. We send our full solidarity and continued support as he begins the process of rebuilding his life.”

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day is a UK‑wide campaign led by charities including the Spinal Injuries Association and Aspire, highlighting the reality of living with a spinal cord injury and the urgent need for better support, rehabilitation and long‑term care.