29 March 2021
Meet triathlete Claire Danson
Former patient, Claire Danson, says she owes her life to the team at University Hospital Southampton.
Claire was a European triathlete champion, on the cusp of becoming a professional when her dream was shattered.
It was August 2019, and Claire had gone out on her bike for a training session when there was a collision with a tractor.
She was transferred to University Hospital Southampton by air ambulance but had suffered a catalogue of life-changing injuries.
Claire had broken every bone in her neck, both shoulders and severed her spine. The injuries left her paralysed from the waist down.
My family were told there was a strong chance I wouldn’t survive, but it’s thanks to the amazing team in the General Intensive Care Unit at Southampton that I am here. They literally saved my life.
It’s an honour to come back and meet the team who saved me and support this triathlon that will help enhance the new unit and enable staff to continue their life saving work for patients like me in the future.”
The expert treatment Claire received means that she’s once again taking up sporting challenges. now, she’s using her energy and talent to help us raise £1milion to kit out our new General Intensive Care Unit.
Claire’s supporting us with the launch of a new, virtual triathlon that anyone can take part in, no matter what your age or fitness level.
Race for a Million
This spring compete in a virtual triathlon where you choose how you race.
Whether you choose to be an Olympian competitor or one of our fun heroes, there is a distance and style for you. Compete on your own or as part of a team and help us to raise the £1milion that we need to make your General intensive Care Unit the best it can be.
