Didcot RFC and Galpin say 'Thongs-a-lot' to IPF

When John Galpin was seriously injured playing for Didcot in September last year, he and his partner Taqwa had a seven week old baby and the family were rocked by the fact that he was paralysed from the neck down.

But the wider rugby family was there in the form of the RFU's Injured Player Foundation (IPF). As John was transferred from John Radcliffe, Oxford, to Stoke Mandeville two weeks after his injury and began to get movement back in his limbs, the IPF provided a lap top and mobile phone to keep communication flowing with Taqwa, family and friends and a signed England shirt, signalling the support of Martin Johnson and the squad.

With Taqwa's paid maternity leave coming to an end shortly after John's injury, the IPF provided financial support and ensured that bills and travel costs were paid.

In December 2009, John was discharged from hospital and returned home able to walk and use all his limbs, just in time for the couple's planned wedding. There were more than a few tears from guests as he walked down the aisle with his bride.

By the end of January John was back at work and in February Taqwa was back in employment too. At this stage the IPF was able to step back, knowing that the family was able to cope again. Mr and Mrs Galpin were at the recent Centenary Match as guests of the IPF to watch England beat Wales.

John says, "The IPF were at my bedside within days of the accident. They took a huge burden off our shoulders by helping Taqwa through this terrible period in our lives. The help they provided ensured I could concentrate on getting stronger and Taqwa could look after our daughter. I can't thank the foundation enough."

The feel good factor was much in evidence and John's club, Didcot, decided to celebrate the positive outcome and the IPF support with their 'Thong Rangers' holding a fund raiser. They managed a magnificent £10,000, with the IPF's Dr Mike England and Oxfordshire RFU Council member Paul Murphy there in support.

Claire Hughes, the excellent secretary of The Didcot Thong Rangers organised the day and you can discover more at www.thongrangers.co.uk

You can also support the fantastic work of the IPF. If you would like to know more about the IPF and how you can help, visit www.rfuipf.org.uk or ring and speak to one of the team on 020 8831 7999.