A teenager left paralysed following a rugby match is settling into his new gym routine at home after treatment in America.
Harris Academy FP were playing Stirling University in Dundee in September when one of the away team’s players, Connor Hughes, was injured while playing outside centre.
The 19-year-old was attended to on the pitch before being rushed to Ninewells Hospital.
He sustained an injury to his C5-C6 vertebrae two of the seven cervical vertebrae in the neck damaging his spinal cord, leaving him with no sensation from his shoulders down.
A fund was set up to raise money for specialist equipment and a seven-week trip to Project Walk in San Diego which has treated those affected by paralysis for nearly two decades.
Connor is now continuing his recovery at home following his return from what was the first of several trips that he hopes to make to the US facility.
He has the support of mum Fiona and three elder sisters, Sarah, Stephanie and Rachael, the latter of whom went with him to California, learning to be his trainer.
Connor said: “After a long journey Rachael and I made it home safely.
“Project Walk was a challenging but amazing experience, and I truly believe there is no better place to start my recovery.
“Their knowledge, expertise and beliefs were a breath of fresh air and it was exactly the boost I needed.
“Whilst I was away my home gym was being built so I can continue the training straight away my trainer has given me no rest days!
“I want to give another massive thanks to everyone who made it possible for me to attend through generous donations and fundraising.”
The fundraising has enabled Connor to continue his Project Walk experience.
David Stibbles, secretary of the Harris Academy FP Rugby Club, said they were doing all they could to support Connor and his family in his rehabilitation.
Howe of Fife Rugby Club recently raised a total of £300 from their matches against Stirling University and Kirkcaldy RFC and Ladies from their gate takings and lunch raffle.
After the initial treatment on the field, Connor was taken to Ninewells before being transferred to the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Unit at the Southern General Hospital, Glasgow.
He underwent intensive reconstructive surgery on his cervical vertebrae before starting the long rehabilitation process.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at www.connorsjourney.com/donate/donate-to-connors-journey.