Life is a fragile gift, and I’ve come to appreciate its preciousness through several near-fatal experiences. These harrowing moments have profoundly shaped my outlook, reminding me just how fleeting and valuable our time on Earth truly is.

In 1968, I had my first close call. . . I survived carbon monoxide poisoning by mere minutes. A faulty heater filled my home with deadly gas while I slept. By good fortune, my dad carried me outside and managed to resuscitate me. Had it not been for that timely intervention, I wouldn’t be here today. This incident was my first stark reminder of how quickly life can be taken away.

Fifteen years later, in 1983, I had another narrow escape. I was involved in a severe car crash. The impact was so intense that the landrover hit a kerb, shot up into the air and glanced off a telegraph pole and rolled. then, after coming to a halt on its passenger side, I managed to run about ten yards or so when it exploded into a fireball.

With just seconds to spare, I managed to unbuckle my seatbelt and crawl out of the wreckage. The heat and flames were intense, and I remember thinking how close I had come to not making it out alive. The experience left me with a deep appreciation for the unpredictability of life and the importance of every moment.

The third brush with death came in 2008, when I suffered a massive heart attack. It struck suddenly, and I was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. It turned out that my left ventricle was completely blocked by plaque that had broken off from one of my arteries so no blood could get out

The doctors later told me that I had survived by a matter of minutes, as the heart would not have coped with such a trauma. My heart was about 25% damaged, so it is now pumping with 75% efficiency. The gravity of the situation hit me hard—once again, I had been given another chance at life.

Then, in 2012, I was diagnosed with PPMS (Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis), a progressive neurological disease. I am now unable to walk so I have to rely on my powerchair to get me around. . . . but hey, I’m alive! While I’ve had my share of close calls, I’m acutely aware that millions of people face far more serious ailments than I ever have.

Chronic illnesses, debilitating diseases, and life-threatening conditions affect countless lives every day. Many endure long-term pain, complex treatments, and uncertain futures with remarkable strength and resilience. Their challenges often require immense physical, emotional, and financial resources.

Reflecting on my experiences, I recognise my fortune in overcoming these episodes and feel deep empathy for those whose daily battles with health are far more severe and enduring than my own.