Scott Blankley, a 47-year-old father of two and director of a construction company, suffered life-threatening injuries after falling three storeys from a ladder at his home in Bristol.
Scott was painting the roof of an extension when he lost his footing and fell first to the home’s first floor, breaking 11 ribs, his collarbone, several thoracic vertebrae, and damaging a lung and kidney. He then fell to the ground, hitting his head and sustaining a brain bleed.
Rushed to Southmead Hospital, Scott has spent five weeks recovering, relearning vital skills such as walking, talking, and swallowing. Part of his skull was removed to relieve pressure from the brain bleed, leaving his brain still exposed during treatment.
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His brother Kai, from Swindon Village in Cheltenham, shares that Scott’s physical recovery is progressing well, though his mental rehabilitation remains a significant challenge. Kai highlights the emotional rollercoaster faced by Scott and his family, noting the gradual, hopeful progress he’s making in communication and mobility.
Scott’s children, nine-year-old Finn and 11-year-old Annabel, have been coping with the situation in their own ways, with Annabel visiting frequently and Finn recently starting visits.
After an initial week in the ICU, Scott moved to the neurology ward and may soon transfer to a rehab center in Frenchay to continue his recovery. Kai praises the incredible care Scott has received at Southmead Hospital, calling it nothing short of miraculous.
To support Scott’s ongoing care and assist his partner Jo and their children, Kai has launched a fundraising campaign, which has already raised nearly £14,000. In April, Kai and a group of friends will undertake a 24-hour rowing challenge, attempting a combined one million metres on rowing machines at Old Redcliffians RFC in Bristol. The event will also include a raffle featuring donated prizes to further raise funds.