Willie’s Project

WHY WE HELPED

Band of Builders returned to Willie’s home to replace his shower, ensuring he has safe, reliable washing facilities and can continue to live with comfort and dignity.

We first introduced you to Michael Dangerfield (known to everyone as Willie) from Gloucester in 2023, when we stepped in to repair his boiler, restoring heating and hot water to his home. Willie had previously suffered a major stroke that left him with a brain injury and unable to return to work. Following his divorce, he moved into a new flat and faced ongoing financial pressures.

Revisiting Willie’s project is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do and the lasting difference our support makes to our beneficiaries’ everyday lives. Our commitment does not end when a project is signed off – our beneficiaries become part of the BoB family and when further support is needed, we are proud to return and continue helping as life unfolds.

THE BACKGROUND

Before his stroke, Willie was a general builder with particular skill in laying resin floors. While working away on a project in Wales, he suffered a severe headache and was taken to A&E, where tests confirmed he had experienced a major stroke, leaving him with a brain injury.

Willie has faced a long and challenging road to recovery. He has been unable to work since the stroke and continues to live with fatigue and memory loss. The profound impact of his injury has affected every aspect of his life and ultimately cost him his marriage.

Despite these challenges, Willie remains determined. A keen runner before his stroke, he has more recently taken up open water swimming. He regularly attends Headway Gloucestershire, which supports survivors of acquired brain injury as they adapt to unwelcome changes and work towards recovery.

THE PROJECT

Willie’s shower was no longer fit for purpose and requires full replacement. For someone living with a brain injury, safe and dependable bathroom facilities are essential to maintaining independence, dignity and overall wellbeing.

Two BoB volunteers returned to Willie’s home to remove the existing shower and install a new, fully functioning unit continuing our commitment to Willie’s ongoing support and wellbeing.

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS

Band of Builders wishes to thank its supporters and sponsors who provided materials.