A man who has taken his first steps in six years has praised hospital staff for getting him back on his feet.
Robert Austin, 45, of Camp Hill Road, Nuneaton, was left virtually paralysed after suffering from a severe viral infection in 2006. He was left unable to walk or talk after the illness, but has finally started to walk again.
His said his recovery was due to staff at the George Eliot Hospital, adding: “There’s still a long way to go, but I’m going in the right direction.
“I just wanted to highlight the help the George Eliot has done for me with ongoing physiotherapy, and now I have a special walker I’ve begun to get mobile again for the first time.
“Their perseverance has helped me over the last three years and I want to say a big thank you.”
Mr Austin, who ran his own lorry firm before being struck down by the illness, was paralysed for 18 months before having regular physio sessions at the hospital to aid his recovery.
Kevin McGee, chief executive of the George Eliot Hospital, said: “It is always extremely satisfying to hear positive stories about the real difference our dedicated staff make to people’s lives.
“Well done to all the staff in the physiotherapy team for the exceptional care they provided to Mr Austin and all of their patients.
“I’d like to thank Mr Austin for highlighting this good work and wish him all the best for his ongoing treatment.”