MattHampsonFoundation1Former England rugby team player regains bowel control after scrum collapse leaves him paralysed from the neck down.

Adapted from Able Magazine, Issue #107, September/October 2013.

In 2005, 28-year old Matt Hampson from Leicestershire, was training with the under-21 England rugby team in preparation for a six nations match, when a scrum collapsed and left him paralysed from the neck down. Fortunately, referee and ex- paramedic Tony Spreadbury performed emergency CPR and saved Matt’s life.

His life changed dramatically, from being an independent England and Leicester Tigers rugby prospect to needing round-the-clock care. The smallest tasks that able-bodied people take for granted, such as going to the toilet, became an issue, as detailed in his award winning biography ‘Engage’, related..

Through the Matt Hampson Foundation, Matt now dedicates his life to providing help, advice and financial support to young people seriously injured through sport. Having read his story, the creators of a revolutionary anal irrigation system got in touch with Matt to see whether they could help.

MattHampsonFoundation4The Peristeen Anal Irrigation system, from Coloplast, helps people whose daily lives were previously constricted by faecal incontinence or constipation by allowing for predictable bowel management. It requires only water and is a highly effective alternative or supplementary solution for people who suffer from chronic constipation or faecal incontinence. It can be administered by the patient in their home, on their own or with assistance. Bowel and incontinence issues can cause loss of mobility but also affect the individual’s dignity and independence.

“In a situation such as mine, the small things can make a big difference. Peristeen has enhanced my life and made going to the toilet a more dignified process. People in situations like mine don’t like to talk about this personal subject. I want them to feel they can be open about it so that they can also benefit from systems like this.”

Matt remains heavily involved in rugby and believes that the sport gives him as much now as it did before his accident. He continues to coach Oakham School and Oakham Town rugby teams and also writes a monthly column for Rugby World Magazine.

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If you are looking for advice or information on the issues mentioned in
this article, please visit www.my-bowel.co.uk.