Sponsored by Slater & Gordon
Michael Mabon, 39 and from Kilmarnock, in East Ayrshire, was named the Alex Richardson Achiever of the Year at the Headway brain injury awards ceremony held at The Dorchester Hotel, in London, on Friday 16 December.
A vicious unprovoked attack just yard from his new home in Swansea left Michael with a life-changing traumatic brain injury that put paid to his hopes of becoming a nurse.
Michael and his girlfriend were less than 100 yards from their new home when they spotted a homeless man begging for help on the street.
They bought the man some sandwiches from a nearby shop but little did they know that a 12-strong gang of thugs had previously rowed with the rough sleeper, and he was caught unawares when the mob returned and launched an unprovoked assault on him from behind. Michael's moment of selfless compassion left him with a life-changing traumatic brain injury.
On returning home to Scotland, Michael began to rebuild his life. Battling against fatigue and social isolation, he has achieved great things including completing college courses and he is currently at university studying for a degree in art.
Michael is also a passionate supporter of and fundraiser for Headway Ayrshire, which provided him with invaluable support.
"Michael's altruistic nature, compassion for others and determination to rebuild his life after brain injury is outstanding," said Peter McCabe, Chief Executive of Headway UK.
"The progress and life achievements Michael has made after sustaining a brain injury while selflessly reaching out to help someone less fortunate than himself are exceptional. He is a truly deserving winner of this award."
The Headway Annual Awards celebrate the exceptional efforts of survivors of brain injury and those caring for them.
Back