0:00:03 > 0:00:07One of the things I love about us Brits is our spirit of generosity.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10If I can give back to somebody who had a similar struggle to my own,
0:00:10 > 0:00:12then that's what I'd like to do.
0:00:12 > 0:00:16Last year, nearly three quarters of us gave to charity.
0:00:16 > 0:00:18But, what if you had the chance to
0:00:18 > 0:00:21go back and relive moments from your past?
0:00:21 > 0:00:22I wish I was 18 again.
0:00:22 > 0:00:24THEY LAUGH
0:00:24 > 0:00:26I'm expecting mum and dad to walk out now and say, "Hello".
0:00:26 > 0:00:28- You know?- Yeah.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31Moments which would inspire you to want to help someone today.
0:00:31 > 0:00:34I want to give back to those people that are going through that,
0:00:34 > 0:00:36that I went through at the beginning.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38If I can give something to somebody else that would change their lives,
0:00:38 > 0:00:40- I'd really love to.- Fantastic.
0:00:40 > 0:00:44Someone who had no idea this life-changing windfall was coming.
0:00:44 > 0:00:47I have got potentially her dream...
0:00:47 > 0:00:49in my hand.
0:00:49 > 0:00:52- How are you feeling?- Nervous.
0:00:52 > 0:00:53'There'll be surprises.'
0:00:53 > 0:00:55- How are you?- How good.
0:00:56 > 0:00:58Thank you so much!
0:00:58 > 0:01:00Thank you!
0:01:00 > 0:01:03'With acts of generosity that will change people's lives...'
0:01:03 > 0:01:07- Aww.- I'm really excited.- We are all crying.
0:01:07 > 0:01:09- Do you need a hug, as well? - Yeah, thanks.
0:01:09 > 0:01:10THEY LAUGH
0:01:10 > 0:01:11'..forever.'
0:01:11 > 0:01:12- Wahay!- That's brilliant.
0:01:12 > 0:01:15Somebody that just does that for people, it's just amazing.
0:01:15 > 0:01:16It really is.
0:01:16 > 0:01:18This is Going Back Giving Back.
0:01:29 > 0:01:31Today we're going back to Buckinghamshire to hear the story
0:01:31 > 0:01:35of a born survivor, a man who beat the odds and now dedicates his life
0:01:35 > 0:01:37to helping others.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41How did this man find the strength to carry on
0:01:41 > 0:01:43after his life changed forever?
0:01:43 > 0:01:46I'm still very, very lucky to still be here as well,
0:01:46 > 0:01:48so every day's a blessing for me,
0:01:48 > 0:01:50every day is a miracle I'm still here.
0:01:50 > 0:01:55What's inspiring him to want to give something back to someone today?
0:01:55 > 0:01:57This is where my new life started.
0:01:57 > 0:01:59And it's saved my life as well.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02Can he help a young boy achieve his dream?
0:02:02 > 0:02:06How does it make you feel when you actually hold that sword and you
0:02:06 > 0:02:08- start fencing?- Happy.
0:02:08 > 0:02:10'And there's an air of anticipation
0:02:10 > 0:02:12'as we prepare for the big surprise...'
0:02:12 > 0:02:15- You nervous?- No, not at all,
0:02:15 > 0:02:16I'm more excited, if I'm really honest with you.
0:02:16 > 0:02:19I'm excited too.
0:02:19 > 0:02:21'..with the ultimate gift.' THEY CHEER
0:02:21 > 0:02:23- That's amazing!- Thank you.
0:02:23 > 0:02:25You're welcome, give me a high five.
0:02:37 > 0:02:41Eight years ago, the man I'm about to meet was given just days to live,
0:02:41 > 0:02:42but fate was on his side.
0:02:42 > 0:02:45He defied the doctors, checked out of hospital and discovered
0:02:45 > 0:02:47a new passion and love for life.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50I'm looking forward to meeting him.
0:02:50 > 0:02:5442-year-old Adrian is a retired wheelchair fencing champion,
0:02:54 > 0:02:56who has represented his country.
0:02:56 > 0:02:59Today he uses his life experiences to tour the world as a
0:02:59 > 0:03:01motivational speaker, and he's
0:03:01 > 0:03:03an ambassador to various charities.
0:03:04 > 0:03:07- Adrian, how are you?- Aled, how are you, sir?
0:03:07 > 0:03:08Yeah, good. Not bad at all, how about you?
0:03:08 > 0:03:10- Fantastic, what a beautiful day. - Yeah.
0:03:10 > 0:03:12'He lives in Warrington in Cheshire,
0:03:12 > 0:03:15'but I'm meeting him in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.'
0:03:15 > 0:03:18So, go on, what's motivating you to give something back today?
0:03:18 > 0:03:21Eight years ago I went to bed perfectly fit and healthy,
0:03:21 > 0:03:23no symptoms.
0:03:23 > 0:03:24I think that's the worrying part about it,
0:03:24 > 0:03:26there was nothing wrong with me whatsoever.
0:03:26 > 0:03:31And I woke up in Warrington hospital three days later,
0:03:31 > 0:03:35and I'd been in a coma and I woke up.
0:03:35 > 0:03:38Doctors were surrounding me and I was so confused and dazed.
0:03:38 > 0:03:40I just didn't know what the heck was going on.
0:03:42 > 0:03:45Adrian had suffered a massive brain haemorrhage.
0:03:45 > 0:03:49But doctors believed this was a symptom of something else.
0:03:49 > 0:03:51They gave Adrian four brain scans,
0:03:51 > 0:03:55then they delivered the worst possible news.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57So they said, "Yeah, we've found a tumour.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00"Unfortunately for you the tumour is four inches long,
0:04:00 > 0:04:03"an inch wide and six inches deep into the brain."
0:04:03 > 0:04:04Oh, my God.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07And, em,... "We'll give you five days to live."
0:04:07 > 0:04:09So, just like that,
0:04:09 > 0:04:11my life had changed forever.
0:04:11 > 0:04:14However, Adrian defied the odds and after five months,
0:04:14 > 0:04:16doctors sent him home.
0:04:16 > 0:04:18But his life had changed overnight.
0:04:18 > 0:04:20He had been a seemingly healthy,
0:04:20 > 0:04:22tower of a man at six foot four,
0:04:22 > 0:04:26with his own business, and father to two young girls.
0:04:26 > 0:04:30When you were told you had five days to live, how did you feel?
0:04:30 > 0:04:33It started to slowly hit me and I just,
0:04:33 > 0:04:36obviously was in just disbelief.
0:04:36 > 0:04:38And just angry as well.
0:04:38 > 0:04:42- "Why me?" kind of thing?- Of course, especially, as you say, cos you were fit and well.
0:04:42 > 0:04:44- Fit and healthy, no symptoms. - You're still here.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47I'm still here, but even though it's been eight years,
0:04:47 > 0:04:50I can still go to bed and never wake up. So...
0:04:50 > 0:04:53it's always there and there's not a reprieve, unfortunately.
0:04:53 > 0:04:56But that must get you down all the time, mustn't it?
0:04:56 > 0:04:59Sometimes, but I think also as well I'm still
0:04:59 > 0:05:01very, very lucky to still be here, as well.
0:05:01 > 0:05:03So, every day is a blessing for me,
0:05:03 > 0:05:04every day is a miracle I'm still here.
0:05:06 > 0:05:09Although Adrian survived, the tumour is inoperable
0:05:09 > 0:05:11and will never go away.
0:05:11 > 0:05:13It's left him with stroke-like symptoms
0:05:13 > 0:05:15and he relies on a wheelchair.
0:05:16 > 0:05:17After leaving hospital,
0:05:17 > 0:05:21the enormity of his illness took him to a really dark place.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23But then, something incredible happened.
0:05:26 > 0:05:28Sport seem to have a huge impact on your life?
0:05:28 > 0:05:30It saved my life, in a way.
0:05:30 > 0:05:32And I remember just sitting at home
0:05:32 > 0:05:35and I saw the Paralympic Association
0:05:35 > 0:05:38were holding tryout for Great Britain in 2012.
0:05:38 > 0:05:41By this point it was 2009,
0:05:41 > 0:05:45literally a year after them saying I had five days to live.
0:05:45 > 0:05:49Adrian went to the events that was spotted by GB Paralympics,
0:05:49 > 0:05:52who were trying to find future athletes.
0:05:53 > 0:05:56He tried over a dozen Paralympic sports and discovered he had a
0:05:56 > 0:05:59natural talent for wheelchair fencing.
0:05:59 > 0:06:01It's transformed his life.
0:06:02 > 0:06:03Had you ever fenced before?
0:06:03 > 0:06:06Not really, no. But I picked up the sword,
0:06:06 > 0:06:10the sabre sword for the first time and I felt it was destiny, in a way.
0:06:10 > 0:06:11You turned into Zorro overnight.
0:06:11 > 0:06:15Yeah! You know, Musketeers, you've been watching.
0:06:15 > 0:06:18But, yeah, it was a wonderful feeling.
0:06:19 > 0:06:22As well as sport, Adrian is heavily involved in charity work and
0:06:22 > 0:06:26coaching children with disabilities.
0:06:26 > 0:06:29And he would now like to help disabled youngster reach their full
0:06:29 > 0:06:31sporting potential.
0:06:31 > 0:06:35And now, the flipside is you want to help somebody else?
0:06:35 > 0:06:37Most definitely.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40Incredible that sport changed your life and now you
0:06:40 > 0:06:43have the power, if you like, of
0:06:43 > 0:06:45helping somebody else's like change?
0:06:45 > 0:06:47Most definitely, most definitely.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49Listen, in order for you to give back,
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- I think we first need to go back... - Sure.- ..on a little journey,
0:06:52 > 0:06:54- if you fancy?- I'm excited. - OK, great.
0:06:54 > 0:06:57Well, I'll go and get the car and we'll get going, shall we?
0:06:57 > 0:06:58- Wonderful.- I'll see you in a bit.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00OK, see you in a minute.
0:07:03 > 0:07:07We are taking Adrian on a trip back in time to remind him of what he's
0:07:07 > 0:07:10achieved since his life changed dramatically.
0:07:10 > 0:07:12And we're hoping it will make him more determined
0:07:12 > 0:07:15to help someone today.
0:07:15 > 0:07:17So, have you got any idea where we're heading off to?
0:07:17 > 0:07:21Erm.. Well, we're in Aylesbury, so I'm thinking maybe
0:07:21 > 0:07:24- home of the Paralympics, Stoke Mandeville?- Could be.
0:07:24 > 0:07:26I think so, anyway.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28I remember some of the streets.
0:07:28 > 0:07:30We are indeed heading to Stoke Mandeville,
0:07:30 > 0:07:32the home of the Paralympics.
0:07:34 > 0:07:38The Stoke Mandeville Hospital was founded in 1832,
0:07:38 > 0:07:41but it was during the Second World War in 1944,
0:07:41 > 0:07:44that its National Spinal Injury Centre was opened to treat
0:07:44 > 0:07:49military casualties by a renowned specialist, Dr Ludwig Guttmann.
0:07:49 > 0:07:52He strongly believed in sport being crucial to building up
0:07:52 > 0:07:55physical strength and self-confidence.
0:07:56 > 0:07:58And it's where Adrian first discovered his
0:07:58 > 0:08:02hidden talent for wheelchair fencing.
0:08:02 > 0:08:04Sport's gave me a passion, gave me a life, again in a way.
0:08:04 > 0:08:06Actually, sport saved my life.
0:08:06 > 0:08:09Because it gave me something to wake up for in the morning,
0:08:09 > 0:08:13to help me just to try and, not overcome my disability,
0:08:13 > 0:08:15- but to deal with it.- Right.
0:08:15 > 0:08:17Where you sporty before?
0:08:17 > 0:08:21I never really honestly thought about competing for Great Britain
0:08:21 > 0:08:25in any way, shape or form, but it turned out that way,
0:08:25 > 0:08:28and it's just been an absolute phenomenal journey.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31And wheelchair fencing, who knew?
0:08:31 > 0:08:32Who knew?
0:08:33 > 0:08:37The roots of competitive fencing date back to the 15th century when
0:08:37 > 0:08:40it was developed from traditional swordsmanship skills that had been
0:08:40 > 0:08:44used for centuries in duels and as self-defence.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47In modern-day fencing, two competitors score points
0:08:47 > 0:08:50when their swords make contact with their opponent.
0:08:50 > 0:08:53With the winner being the first to reach 15 points.
0:08:55 > 0:08:58And how did you feel then, when you started fencing,
0:08:58 > 0:09:01- was it the most natural thing in the world?- Erm...
0:09:01 > 0:09:04Yeah. In a way it was, actually.
0:09:04 > 0:09:06I thought, "This is actually really cool", and then you started to talk
0:09:06 > 0:09:09about the psychology side behind sport,
0:09:09 > 0:09:12behind my chosen weapon.
0:09:12 > 0:09:14And that just blew my mind.
0:09:15 > 0:09:18Wheelchair fencing was developed at Stoke Mandeville.
0:09:18 > 0:09:22Fencing is one of the core sports that's featured in every one of the
0:09:22 > 0:09:24modern Olympic Games and the Paralympics.
0:09:28 > 0:09:31Sadly, despite Adrian's promising wheelchair fencing career,
0:09:31 > 0:09:35his ambitions to take part in the 2012 London Paralympics
0:09:35 > 0:09:38were dealt a cruel blow.
0:09:38 > 0:09:41Because you were training for the Paralympics,
0:09:41 > 0:09:44- but then you got injured, didn't you?- Yeah, I was devastated.
0:09:44 > 0:09:48I was training so hard and it was going amazingly well.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52And then we were in Spain for warm-weather training.
0:09:52 > 0:09:57A nice, light competition before London, and I blew my rotator cuff,
0:09:57 > 0:10:00which was absolutely devastating for myself.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02I was crushed.
0:10:02 > 0:10:04Especially with everything you'd been through?
0:10:04 > 0:10:08I ended up going to London, but as an athlete and a spectator,
0:10:08 > 0:10:11- you know, shouting on and cheering on Team GB.- How was that?
0:10:11 > 0:10:14It was amazing, but also really devastating.
0:10:16 > 0:10:20Although taking part in the 14th Paralympics wasn't to be,
0:10:20 > 0:10:23wheelchair fencing transformed Adrian's life.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26I guess you've probably guessed where we're going now?
0:10:26 > 0:10:29Ah, yes. We've just turned the corner
0:10:29 > 0:10:31to Stoke Mandeville.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38It was on this site where the idea of the Paralympics began.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42In 1948, the hospital's spinal specialist, Dr Guttmann,
0:10:42 > 0:10:44organised the first Stoke Mandeville Games
0:10:44 > 0:10:48for disabled British World War II casualties.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50It was a big success, and for 12 years,
0:10:50 > 0:10:53the International Stoke Mandeville Games For The Paralysed
0:10:53 > 0:10:54were held here.
0:10:54 > 0:10:57In 1960, the competition was moved to Rome,
0:10:57 > 0:10:59where the Olympics were being held.
0:10:59 > 0:11:03And from then on in, we officially had the Paralympic Games.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06Such was the importance of sport to the hospital
0:11:06 > 0:11:09that a stadium was built in the grounds in the 1960s,
0:11:09 > 0:11:12which got a complete refurb in 2003.
0:11:16 > 0:11:18So this is it, isn't it? This is the main reception?
0:11:18 > 0:11:21Yep. This is it, Stoke Mandeville Stadium
0:11:21 > 0:11:24and home of Team GB.
0:11:24 > 0:11:28And, wow, it hasn't changed whatsoever.
0:11:28 > 0:11:31- No?- No, not whatsoever, it's absolutely...
0:11:31 > 0:11:35Cafe's still there where we used to throw carbs down ourselves
0:11:35 > 0:11:38just to prepare for another eight hours of training.
0:11:38 > 0:11:40- We'll pop-out, shall we? - Yeah, definitely.- OK.
0:11:42 > 0:11:46This is where Adrian used to come for one week every month to train
0:11:46 > 0:11:49and compete for his national and international competitions
0:11:49 > 0:11:51as a wheelchair fencer.
0:11:51 > 0:11:54- This is it.- Here we are, Stoke Mandeville.
0:11:54 > 0:11:56Is it a feeling of coming home, almost?
0:11:56 > 0:12:00Definitely, it's definitely nostalgia, you know...
0:12:01 > 0:12:03I can feel the pain in my muscles already
0:12:03 > 0:12:05thinking about all the training I used to do here.
0:12:05 > 0:12:08But also, as well, it's...
0:12:08 > 0:12:11just the smell and the atmosphere of Stoke Mandeville,
0:12:11 > 0:12:13there's nothing like it. It is very special.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15- It's full-on, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17Obviously this is where we used to train.
0:12:17 > 0:12:20If we wasn't actually competing or fencing, this is where we were,
0:12:20 > 0:12:24lots of core work, because obviously we're wheelchair users so it's all
0:12:24 > 0:12:25about the core moving.
0:12:25 > 0:12:28It brings back some amazing, amazing, painful memories.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31- Plus some amazing ones, as well. - I tell you what, it worked.
0:12:31 > 0:12:33- Shall we carry on?- Yeah, yeah. Definitely.
0:12:33 > 0:12:37- Where next?- OK, we're just go around the corner here to the hall.
0:12:37 > 0:12:40This is where we used to train as well in fencing.
0:12:40 > 0:12:44Lots of international training as well as competing, as well.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47Adrian had been training for a place on the wheelchair fencing team for
0:12:47 > 0:12:50the London 2012 Paralympic Games
0:12:50 > 0:12:52in this very sports hall.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55Yeah, I'm just looking at it. I just want to kind of, just...
0:12:55 > 0:12:58savour this moment, just for a second. It's absolutely amazing.
0:12:58 > 0:12:59It's like...ah!
0:12:59 > 0:13:01It still smells the same, as well.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04- Does it?- Yeah, hard work and sweat, definitely.
0:13:04 > 0:13:05When was the last time you were in here, then?
0:13:05 > 0:13:08This was what, five years ago. Right.
0:13:08 > 0:13:10Five years ago. So, we um...
0:13:10 > 0:13:14- It smells like a gym, doesn't it? - It does, it's a big, big, big gym.
0:13:14 > 0:13:16And obviously we've got the auditorium, there,
0:13:16 > 0:13:19so everyone can watch.
0:13:19 > 0:13:22Athletes don't just train in wheelchair fencing here,
0:13:22 > 0:13:24other sports include Paralympic table tennis,
0:13:24 > 0:13:27and volleyball, and wheelchair badminton and basketball.
0:13:30 > 0:13:32This room has seen a lot of sport, hasn't it?
0:13:32 > 0:13:34It has, it has, a lot of sport,
0:13:34 > 0:13:37and me included in it as well, in fencing.
0:13:37 > 0:13:38What's it like being back?
0:13:38 > 0:13:41Yeah. Goose bumps, this is where it all started for me.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44This is where my new life started.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46And... Yeah.
0:13:46 > 0:13:50It saved my life as well, just being here, competing, training.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- Especially at elite level as well... - Yeah.
0:13:54 > 0:13:56..and, obviously, very, very proud.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58It's an incredible place, it's massive.
0:13:58 > 0:14:01Where do you think you would have been without this place
0:14:01 > 0:14:02and without sport?
0:14:02 > 0:14:06Erm, honestly, I don't know.
0:14:06 > 0:14:08I was so low, and...
0:14:08 > 0:14:12I was given this constant death sentence.
0:14:12 > 0:14:13You know, "Any time now, any time now."
0:14:13 > 0:14:17But do you think having the sport was almost a release from...
0:14:17 > 0:14:19- the sentence you were under?- Yes.
0:14:19 > 0:14:23It was the getaway and it was something that my home life
0:14:23 > 0:14:27and my personal life was here, and it allowed me to get away from that
0:14:27 > 0:14:31home life and personal life to a stadium like Stoke Mandeville
0:14:31 > 0:14:34that was full of inspiration, anyway.
0:14:34 > 0:14:37So, how does it work? If you and I were fencing,
0:14:37 > 0:14:38and even the thought of it, I have sweaty palms.
0:14:38 > 0:14:39ADRIAN LAUGHS
0:14:39 > 0:14:42- So, you would be there?- Yeah, I would be in a piste,
0:14:42 > 0:14:46it's a metal piste and because we lunge so much, it's so aggressive,
0:14:46 > 0:14:48- we have to be strapped in. - OK. So you're strapped in there?
0:14:48 > 0:14:50So we'd have clamps, we're strapped in.
0:14:50 > 0:14:52- Where would I be?- You would be basically there.- In this position?
0:14:52 > 0:14:54- Yeah.- Right.- And you'd be strapped in.- OK.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57And, erm, hundredths of a second...
0:14:57 > 0:15:00You can train for four years for the Paralympics
0:15:00 > 0:15:02and in a 15-point
0:15:02 > 0:15:06competition could be over in probably 30 seconds, if that.
0:15:06 > 0:15:09So, you can train for so long and it can just be over with,
0:15:09 > 0:15:11especially in Sabre, which is very, very fast.
0:15:11 > 0:15:14I'm really pleased for you to come back here. Shall we carry on?
0:15:14 > 0:15:15Yes, let's definitely do.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20He may not be a Paralympian,
0:15:20 > 0:15:22but Adrian did win three silver medals in
0:15:22 > 0:15:26British national wheelchair fencing competitions.
0:15:26 > 0:15:29One of the competitions was held here, at Stoke Mandeville.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32Well, at that spot over there, Aled,
0:15:32 > 0:15:35was the first place I won my first silver medal,
0:15:35 > 0:15:38- competing at the Nationals, so the best of the best for Great Britain. - OK.
0:15:38 > 0:15:42And having just held a sword for three weeks prior to that was
0:15:42 > 0:15:45really daunting. But it brings back great memories.
0:15:45 > 0:15:48- How were you feeling when you were there?- I was so nervous.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51So nervous. We were surrounded, there where chairs everywhere,
0:15:51 > 0:15:55lots of people and lots of noises regarding people shouting and
0:15:55 > 0:15:58calling your name. It was absolutely fantastic.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01This place is incredible, isn't it? You get that sense of greatness and
0:16:01 > 0:16:04achievement for the whole of Stoke Mandeville really, don't you?
0:16:04 > 0:16:08Most definitely, you go down the corridors and there's always lots of
0:16:08 > 0:16:12pictures of past Olympians and Paralympians,
0:16:12 > 0:16:14And you just really get that feeling that,
0:16:14 > 0:16:17wow, this was the start of it in 1945.
0:16:17 > 0:16:21- I'm glad we came back here. Come on, let's go.- Thank you.
0:16:21 > 0:16:23Coming up, the team have been on the hunt for a youngster with
0:16:23 > 0:16:26disabilities, who's got the desire and determination
0:16:26 > 0:16:27to succeed in sport.
0:16:28 > 0:16:30And we think we found them.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34He's a young boy with a big passion for wheelchair fencing,
0:16:34 > 0:16:37so we think his story will resonate with Adrian.
0:16:39 > 0:16:41He and his family think we are making a programme
0:16:41 > 0:16:43about aspiring athletes.
0:16:43 > 0:16:46They have no idea the real reason behind Adrian's visit.
0:16:46 > 0:16:48And that they could be in for a generous gift.
0:16:53 > 0:16:56Adrian has been on quite a trip down memory lane,
0:16:56 > 0:16:59but there's one last place we've arranged for him to revisit,
0:16:59 > 0:17:02this unassuming social club.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06When he wasn't at Stoke Mandeville, Adrian came here to train.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10Just reminds me of all the times that I've actually been here,
0:17:10 > 0:17:14four times a week, four or five hour training sessions.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17It is absolutely amazing, it hasn't changed a bit.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20Inside, we've arranged a long overdue reunion with
0:17:20 > 0:17:22the man who made it all happen.
0:17:24 > 0:17:26- Adrian.- And here's the man himself,
0:17:26 > 0:17:29it's like he's never left after six years.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32- How are you, man?- How are you, John?
0:17:32 > 0:17:35- Good to see you.- Oh, it's good to see you.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38John Townsend was Adrian's first coach and the man who
0:17:38 > 0:17:40discovered his talent for fencing.
0:17:40 > 0:17:43- It's like you've never gone. - No! And you're...
0:17:43 > 0:17:44My goodness.
0:17:45 > 0:17:5079-year-old John was a national fencer for Team GB in the 1950s and
0:17:50 > 0:17:54used his local club for Adrian's training.
0:17:54 > 0:17:56- This little social club, it's where I learned everything.- That's right.
0:17:56 > 0:17:58- That's it.- You know, and...
0:17:58 > 0:18:02- from the master.- Well, no, not all, you did have a little bit.
0:18:02 > 0:18:05Maybe a little touch, but you gave me finesse.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09Remember, you kept saying, "Adrian, fast is good but finesse, with finesse."
0:18:09 > 0:18:11- That's right.- And I'll never forget that.
0:18:11 > 0:18:13It brings back so many memories.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15It does. I can remember the first time I saw you.
0:18:15 > 0:18:20I was down at Stoke Mandeville and I was giving a lesson and I looked up
0:18:20 > 0:18:22and this face appeared at the door.
0:18:22 > 0:18:26So, if you remember, I went down and opened the door and said,
0:18:26 > 0:18:27"Would you like to come in?"
0:18:27 > 0:18:31And you came in and you sat there for half an hour.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33And I went...
0:18:33 > 0:18:35"He's obviously very interested."
0:18:35 > 0:18:37So I said, "Would you like a lesson?"
0:18:37 > 0:18:40- And he said, "Yes."- And we did. - And you had your first lesson.
0:18:40 > 0:18:42I did. And it was...
0:18:42 > 0:18:45It was blatantly obvious that you were going to be a good fencer.
0:18:45 > 0:18:50John put Adrian through his paces, but it was all worth it in the end.
0:18:50 > 0:18:54I remember I was mainly on this side
0:18:54 > 0:18:56and you gave me the lesson from here.
0:18:56 > 0:18:58And this is where I learned.
0:18:58 > 0:19:02You kept saying, "Adrian, fast, but finesse, finesse, finesse."
0:19:02 > 0:19:05And it was just... It was vigorous, as well, because it just wasn't
0:19:05 > 0:19:06- one hit and that was it. - That's right.
0:19:06 > 0:19:09It was constantly backwards and forwards to get my core muscles
0:19:09 > 0:19:11- all working again.- That's it.
0:19:11 > 0:19:14That force to be reckoned with was just because of the training
0:19:14 > 0:19:16you gave me, but also the knowledge
0:19:16 > 0:19:19as well of what fencing's really about.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22Because it's not just about wielding a sword around...
0:19:22 > 0:19:25- Oh, no.- ..it's a chess game with swords, in a way.
0:19:25 > 0:19:28- Exactly.- And you taught me that, and taught me
0:19:28 > 0:19:30what fencing really is about.
0:19:30 > 0:19:35Well, you fell into the idea, the true idea of fencing
0:19:35 > 0:19:36very, very quickly.
0:19:36 > 0:19:39The vast majority of people think it's attack, attack, attack, attack.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41- Yeah.- And it's not.- No.
0:19:41 > 0:19:44You know, half of it's action
0:19:44 > 0:19:47- and the other half is reaction.- Mmm.
0:19:47 > 0:19:50And it's reaction you used perfectly.
0:19:50 > 0:19:53- Definitely.- And that's what improved your fencing so fast.
0:19:53 > 0:19:57Yeah. Also, I had a great coach as well, this is why...
0:19:57 > 0:19:58Who was that?
0:19:58 > 0:20:00ADRIAN LAUGHS
0:20:00 > 0:20:03Reliving the intense training he went through to become a competitive
0:20:03 > 0:20:06wheelchair fencing is spurring Adrian on
0:20:06 > 0:20:07to want to help someone else.
0:20:09 > 0:20:10It was fencing,
0:20:10 > 0:20:14it was yourself who gave me that passion for the fight to live again.
0:20:14 > 0:20:16- Oh, definitely.- And I think,
0:20:16 > 0:20:19it would be really good to do something for a child who loves
0:20:19 > 0:20:21- sport as well.- Oh, absolutely.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23- What do you think?- Yeah, absolutely brilliant.
0:20:23 > 0:20:25No, I'm thrilled.
0:20:25 > 0:20:28And if there's any way I can help, please me know.
0:20:28 > 0:20:30OK, I really appreciate that, John, thank you.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32Well, John, it's been a real pleasure.
0:20:32 > 0:20:34Thank you so much for having me.
0:20:34 > 0:20:37It's been a marvellous pleasure seeing you again.
0:20:37 > 0:20:38It's fantastic to see you.
0:20:38 > 0:20:42- Absolutely fantastic.- And I really appreciate it.
0:20:42 > 0:20:43I can never thank you enough.
0:20:43 > 0:20:45- All the best.- Take care.
0:20:47 > 0:20:50This has been quite an emotional reunion for Adrian.
0:20:54 > 0:20:58Coming back to the social club where I trained, and meeting John,
0:20:58 > 0:21:01really stirred up so many memories in regards to
0:21:01 > 0:21:05just how much sport helped and saved my life.
0:21:05 > 0:21:09And it just made me feel even more
0:21:09 > 0:21:11that giving back
0:21:11 > 0:21:13is definitely something that I want to do.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18Retracing the journey that started at Stoke Mandeville when he
0:21:18 > 0:21:21discovered his talent for wheelchair fencing
0:21:21 > 0:21:24has been truly motivating for Adrian.
0:21:24 > 0:21:27- What's it like being back? - Goose bumps.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30- Really?- Yeah. This is where it all started for me.
0:21:30 > 0:21:33This is where my new life started.
0:21:33 > 0:21:37But most importantly, reliving it all has helped focus Adrian's mind.
0:21:37 > 0:21:40Sport changed your life and now you have the power, if you like,
0:21:40 > 0:21:43of helping somebody else's life change.
0:21:43 > 0:21:44Most definitely.
0:21:46 > 0:21:49Taking Adrian back to where sport turned his life around,
0:21:49 > 0:21:51was just incredible.
0:21:51 > 0:21:54What a journey he's been and is going on.
0:21:54 > 0:21:56You know, Adrian is passionate about helping young people,
0:21:56 > 0:21:59so we found a very special little boy whose story
0:21:59 > 0:22:02we think will really resonate with him.
0:22:04 > 0:22:07Seven-year-old Jamie lives in a village in Northamptonshire with his
0:22:07 > 0:22:11mum Lou, dad Andy, and his little sister Phoebe, who's three.
0:22:12 > 0:22:14Jamie has cerebral palsy,
0:22:14 > 0:22:17a condition that affects movement and coordination.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19And for Jamie, it means he is unable to walk.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25Having Jamie on a day-to-day basis, it's...
0:22:25 > 0:22:26It has its challenges.
0:22:26 > 0:22:29Simple things like going up and down the stairs,
0:22:29 > 0:22:31getting to and from the car.
0:22:31 > 0:22:35You almost take for granted all of the little things which
0:22:35 > 0:22:37maybe a more able-bodied child can do.
0:22:37 > 0:22:40He's such a lovely boy, he so positive.
0:22:40 > 0:22:42He adapts to everything.
0:22:42 > 0:22:44Jamie was three years old when he was diagnosed with
0:22:44 > 0:22:49the neurological condition. It tore his parent's world apart.
0:22:49 > 0:22:53When we were first told he had cerebral palsy, it was hard.
0:22:53 > 0:22:57Very, very hard. And it's something we're still coming to terms with.
0:22:57 > 0:22:59And I don't think I will ever get over that.
0:22:59 > 0:23:02Then reality hit hard, when, aged just four,
0:23:02 > 0:23:04Jamie was confined to a wheelchair.
0:23:04 > 0:23:08Since Jamie lost his ability to walk, it was a shock, a real shock.
0:23:08 > 0:23:12All your dreams you had for your child suddenly changed.
0:23:12 > 0:23:13He doesn't know any different,
0:23:13 > 0:23:17but it's the life we've lost having him and walking with him,
0:23:17 > 0:23:21walking him to school, all the normal things that children do.
0:23:21 > 0:23:23It's hard for him sometimes,
0:23:23 > 0:23:25being a child he sees other children doing things
0:23:25 > 0:23:26that he can't possibly do,
0:23:26 > 0:23:30but we just try and enable him to do as much as we possibly can.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33Jamie's parents, who are both teachers,
0:23:33 > 0:23:37are determined to do everything they can to give Jamie the best in life.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41One major decision they made was to move from London to
0:23:41 > 0:23:44Northamptonshire, to be near family and afford a larger,
0:23:44 > 0:23:47adaptable house for Jamie to grow up in.
0:23:47 > 0:23:51It's a move we haven't looked back, the house is perfect for Jamie now.
0:23:51 > 0:23:54In here, he can be himself, and he zips around the kitchen
0:23:54 > 0:23:57and the hallway on his little skateboard, that he loves.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00That, again, makes him more independent.
0:24:00 > 0:24:04But the move has also marked another huge, positive effect for Jamie,
0:24:04 > 0:24:06who, like Adrian, loves sport.
0:24:07 > 0:24:08A year ago, just like Adrian,
0:24:08 > 0:24:11Jamie discovered he had a natural talent and passion
0:24:11 > 0:24:13for wheelchair fencing.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16And incredibly, it was also at Stoke Mandeville.
0:24:16 > 0:24:19He likes that challenge. I think it's a feeling of acceptance for Jamie.
0:24:19 > 0:24:23He can actually compete and he sees the competition on an even keel.
0:24:23 > 0:24:26He loves it. I'm looking forward to him being in the Olympics
0:24:26 > 0:24:28as he gets older.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31So with all these similarities and joint aspirations,
0:24:31 > 0:24:33we thought they should meet.
0:24:34 > 0:24:37Well, I'm here visiting Jamie today.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40He has an interesting story, just like mine.
0:24:40 > 0:24:42And I believe he has a passion for sport.
0:24:42 > 0:24:46So, it's something that I'm looking forward to chatting to him about.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48It's really important this meeting goes well,
0:24:48 > 0:24:52as it could make a huge difference to Jamie.
0:24:52 > 0:24:54Adrian wanted to specifically help a youngster in a wheelchair
0:24:54 > 0:24:57with a promising sporting career.
0:24:57 > 0:25:00The fact Jamie's into fencing is a bonus.
0:25:00 > 0:25:02So, let's just hope they all hit it off.
0:25:04 > 0:25:05Andy, hi. Adrian.
0:25:05 > 0:25:08- Hi. How are you doing?- It's a real pleasure, how are you?
0:25:08 > 0:25:11- Please come in.- Thank you very much.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13Jamie and his family think we are making a programme
0:25:13 > 0:25:15about aspiring athletes.
0:25:15 > 0:25:18They have absolutely no idea that Jamie could be in for a
0:25:18 > 0:25:19generous gift.
0:25:20 > 0:25:22- Hi, guys.- Hi.- Hiya.
0:25:22 > 0:25:24Hi, how are you?
0:25:24 > 0:25:27- Good.- You must be, Jamie?
0:25:27 > 0:25:29- Yes.- My name's Adrian, how are you?
0:25:29 > 0:25:30- Good.- You're looking well.
0:25:30 > 0:25:33Let me have a guess, is it Phoebe?
0:25:33 > 0:25:35Is that right?
0:25:35 > 0:25:36Wow, and this is your sister?
0:25:36 > 0:25:38- So, how are we today?- Good.
0:25:38 > 0:25:42Jamie was at a wheelchair sports camp for children at
0:25:42 > 0:25:44Stoke Mandeville when the fencing bug took over,
0:25:44 > 0:25:46and he hasn't looked back.
0:25:46 > 0:25:49I've just noticed that you have
0:25:49 > 0:25:52a sword on your couch.
0:25:52 > 0:25:54- Is that right?- No.
0:25:54 > 0:25:56That's not a sword, is it?
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- What is it then?- It's a foil.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01Wow, so how long have you been fencing?
0:26:01 > 0:26:03- I don't really know.- Not long?
0:26:03 > 0:26:06- Just under a year, now. - Just under a year? Wow.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08And are you enjoying it?
0:26:08 > 0:26:10What do you like about it?
0:26:10 > 0:26:14Well... It's just good.
0:26:14 > 0:26:15Can I have a look at it?
0:26:15 > 0:26:17Let's have a look. Wow.
0:26:17 > 0:26:19- MUM:- Pass it over.- Do you want to pass it to me?
0:26:19 > 0:26:22Wow, this is a really cool foil.
0:26:22 > 0:26:24That's absolutely amazing.
0:26:24 > 0:26:26You've got your glove there as well?
0:26:26 > 0:26:28With a special message on the thumb.
0:26:28 > 0:26:29"The boss!"
0:26:29 > 0:26:32I'm not the boss yet.
0:26:32 > 0:26:34Not the boss yet.
0:26:34 > 0:26:38Jamie has a real talent for fencing and has already started training
0:26:38 > 0:26:40once a week with a Paralympian coach.
0:26:40 > 0:26:44How does it make you feel when you actually hold that sword
0:26:44 > 0:26:46- and you start fencing?- Happy.
0:26:46 > 0:26:48Does it make you happy?
0:26:48 > 0:26:50Why does it make you happy?
0:26:50 > 0:26:53Well, it just does.
0:26:53 > 0:26:55When he first tried it,
0:26:55 > 0:26:58he actually went back, rather than having lunch,
0:26:58 > 0:27:00he said can I go back and try it again.
0:27:00 > 0:27:01And he's really proud of it.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03Everybody's proud of you doing it, aren't they?
0:27:03 > 0:27:06That's great. Well, give me a high five on that.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09Good. And I want you to tell me, as well,
0:27:09 > 0:27:12if you win a medal, OK? And I'll come down and watch you as well.
0:27:12 > 0:27:15- That would be good, wouldn't it? - Fantastic, well done.
0:27:15 > 0:27:16See you in a minute, bye.
0:27:16 > 0:27:18There's no doubt Adrian can see a
0:27:18 > 0:27:20little Paralympian in the making in Jamie.
0:27:20 > 0:27:24But he wants to find out more about this young man,
0:27:24 > 0:27:25and how the family cope.
0:27:26 > 0:27:29So, Andy, tell me about Jamie's condition.
0:27:29 > 0:27:32Jamie's like any other seven-year-old, loves what he loves,
0:27:32 > 0:27:35loves his sport. It's just his legs don't work.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38Jamie had a normal birth.
0:27:38 > 0:27:41He was diagnosed at age three with cerebral palsy,
0:27:41 > 0:27:45when his parents noticed he was late learning to walk.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48Our world changed within a heartbeat and I think that was the hardest
0:27:48 > 0:27:52thing. Thinking about it, it was tough for both of us, tough on us,
0:27:52 > 0:27:54tough as a family as well.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57But, you cope.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00As devoted parents, Andy and Lou have made it their mission to keep a
0:28:00 > 0:28:03positive can-do attitude with Jamie.
0:28:04 > 0:28:07- I don't want to wrap my son up in cotton wool.- No.
0:28:07 > 0:28:10You know, yes, he has... He's differently abled...
0:28:10 > 0:28:12but I want him to do what he wants to do.
0:28:12 > 0:28:15I want him to go to university, I want him to have high aspirations,
0:28:15 > 0:28:16I want him to...
0:28:16 > 0:28:20be resilient, inspire, succeed, have his own house.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22- You know, live his life...- Mh-hm.
0:28:22 > 0:28:25..and I think that's...
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- the way we've adapted to...- Yeah.
0:28:28 > 0:28:30.. to Jamie and his disability, really.
0:28:32 > 0:28:35Sport is hugely important in the household.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39Andy is a PE teacher and, possibly, that's where Jamie gets
0:28:39 > 0:28:41his passion and sporting ability.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44Tell me about Jamie and sport.
0:28:44 > 0:28:48Because he... Just looking at him, he just loves...
0:28:48 > 0:28:50I can just tell straightaway.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52We've always been quite sporty as a family, anyway.
0:28:52 > 0:28:56I've always believed in the power of sport and I believe what it can
0:28:56 > 0:28:59offer. I think then especially for Jamie,
0:28:59 > 0:29:02even when pre-Jamie's diagnosis of his condition,
0:29:02 > 0:29:04we used to walk round the park and play tennis.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07I thought I had the next Andy Murray on my hands.
0:29:07 > 0:29:08At two and a half, three years old,
0:29:08 > 0:29:10- he could hold a rally with me over the net.- Wow.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13At three. I was thinking, "Wow...
0:29:13 > 0:29:15"I might have a little star here."
0:29:15 > 0:29:17He loves basketball, he loves tennis.
0:29:17 > 0:29:18But as soon as he went to this camp,
0:29:18 > 0:29:22- there was a coach there who had the try fencing equipment...- Right.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24..and Jamie fell in love.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27For Adrian, it's clear Jamie has the drive and the determination to
0:29:27 > 0:29:31succeed in his new-found love of wheelchair fencing.
0:29:31 > 0:29:35Jamie can rattle off the different commands, the different movements,
0:29:35 > 0:29:38the different sets of...
0:29:38 > 0:29:41you know, parry, riposte, and...
0:29:41 > 0:29:44disengage, and different movement patterns.
0:29:44 > 0:29:48And I sometimes have to pinch myself and take a step back and go,
0:29:48 > 0:29:49"He's only seven."
0:29:49 > 0:29:52But, hey, listen, a budding Paralympian in the making,
0:29:52 > 0:29:53it starts now, doesn't it?
0:29:53 > 0:29:56I mean, he makes us proud everyday.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59Although Jamie is not competing yet,
0:29:59 > 0:30:01Adrian wants to find out how he can help this
0:30:01 > 0:30:03Paralympian fencer in the making.
0:30:05 > 0:30:09Fencing, it's one of the sports I chose to be one of
0:30:09 > 0:30:11the most expensive ones, just because of the fact of
0:30:11 > 0:30:13- how much kit we have to have.- Yeah.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15What does he have at the moment, is it just the...?
0:30:15 > 0:30:17He has the glove and his foil.
0:30:17 > 0:30:20At the moment, he borrows everything else.
0:30:20 > 0:30:24OK. I think it would be probably inspiring a little bit later on,
0:30:24 > 0:30:27once he does it a little bit more and he really likes it,
0:30:27 > 0:30:31- that he finally may get his own kit, at one point.- Definitely.
0:30:31 > 0:30:34Cos that makes you feel more part of it than anything else
0:30:34 > 0:30:36because, "This is my own kit."
0:30:36 > 0:30:39- Not just something...- He's borrowed. - ..borrowed, and that, in itself
0:30:39 > 0:30:40would be pretty cool for him.
0:30:40 > 0:30:42Yeah, I mean, it's something that I
0:30:42 > 0:30:44didn't know much about really at all.
0:30:46 > 0:30:48I think we can safely say Adrian has found a kindred spirit
0:30:48 > 0:30:51in little Jamie.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54Well, Andy, I really appreciate you inviting me here today.
0:30:54 > 0:30:56- It's an absolute pleasure.- It has been a real pleasure and
0:30:56 > 0:30:59meeting your family has been inspirational to me as well.
0:30:59 > 0:31:02So, thank you so much for having me into your home.
0:31:02 > 0:31:03- Absolute pleasure.- Thank you.
0:31:03 > 0:31:06Thank you.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09It's pretty clear Jamie and his family have made
0:31:09 > 0:31:11a huge impression on Adrian.
0:31:17 > 0:31:21It was great to, not only see Jamie, but obviously his family as well,
0:31:21 > 0:31:25who have been affected just as much as he has been.
0:31:25 > 0:31:29But I've seen his dad, who is a PE teacher,
0:31:29 > 0:31:33you know, encouraging him to sport and obviously, as well,
0:31:33 > 0:31:34wheelchair fencing,
0:31:34 > 0:31:37which is, obviously, my sport and the sport I'm passionate about,
0:31:37 > 0:31:39is absolutely fantastic to see.
0:31:41 > 0:31:45Adrian and Jamie obviously share a huge love of wheelchair fencing.
0:31:47 > 0:31:51And in Jamie, Adrian can see an enthusiasm and a talent he also
0:31:51 > 0:31:55discovered when he started this Paralympian sport.
0:31:55 > 0:31:58But, being absolutely sure he should be helping Jamie,
0:31:58 > 0:32:00is not a decision to be taken lightly.
0:32:00 > 0:32:04So, Adrian is getting advice from the person who knows him best.
0:32:04 > 0:32:05His fiancee Lucinda.
0:32:08 > 0:32:12I've had this amazing journey, and,
0:32:12 > 0:32:16wow, going back to Stoke Mandeville where it first started. And it was
0:32:16 > 0:32:20really overwhelming, this journey of
0:32:20 > 0:32:23fencing and just going back to where
0:32:23 > 0:32:28it all began in the auditorium, which was really, really cool.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31And then having this wonderful opportunity to see John again,
0:32:31 > 0:32:34which has been so long, and go through how it all started with
0:32:34 > 0:32:37him coaching me. So that's been amazing.
0:32:37 > 0:32:40I remember how ill you were, and your life had just
0:32:40 > 0:32:43changed dramatically, literally overnight, and
0:32:43 > 0:32:45that changed my life as well.
0:32:45 > 0:32:48The conversations that we had, you know, where's your...
0:32:48 > 0:32:52what's the meaning of your life, what's your life going to be,
0:32:52 > 0:32:53what's the point of you?
0:32:53 > 0:32:57And it was so upsetting to hear, and then you found fencing
0:32:57 > 0:33:01and it gave you a purpose and it gave you something to strive for.
0:33:01 > 0:33:05To top this journey, meeting this young seven-year-old chap,
0:33:05 > 0:33:10and he loves sport and he loves wheelchair fencing of all the sports
0:33:10 > 0:33:12he could choose. And it's a...
0:33:12 > 0:33:14Wow, he's so passionate about it.
0:33:14 > 0:33:16And I thought, "Wow, that's absolutely amazing."
0:33:16 > 0:33:17It really kind of touched my heart.
0:33:17 > 0:33:19You know how it changed me?
0:33:19 > 0:33:22- Yeah.- You know, for the better, and it got me to where I am today.
0:33:22 > 0:33:25Definitely, I think if it hadn't have been for that,
0:33:25 > 0:33:29you wouldn't be where you are now and you wouldn't be who you are now.
0:33:29 > 0:33:31It was a great opportunity for you.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34I don't want, maybe, Jamie or his family to go through all the
0:33:34 > 0:33:37struggles we did. Like, financially it cost so much money
0:33:37 > 0:33:39- to set up...- Yeah.- ..and things like this.
0:33:39 > 0:33:43I just feel it would be a great opportunity to help them out.
0:33:43 > 0:33:46Well, I think if you think that it's something you want to do,
0:33:46 > 0:33:48and you are able to do it, then you definitely should.
0:33:48 > 0:33:51There's no reason why you shouldn't.
0:33:51 > 0:33:55It sounds like you've had a wonderful experience,
0:33:55 > 0:33:57so you should definitely help them.
0:33:57 > 0:33:58- You should.- Thank you.
0:34:01 > 0:34:03Hearing that Lucinda is all for helping Jamie,
0:34:03 > 0:34:05means everything to Adrian.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08Now, we've gone back it's time for Adrian to go forward and work out
0:34:08 > 0:34:13exactly how he can make a difference to Jamie's young fencing career.
0:34:18 > 0:34:20Right, time to catch up with Adrian, I think.
0:34:20 > 0:34:23I can't wait to hear what he made of young Jamie.
0:34:23 > 0:34:25They're both such courageous people,
0:34:25 > 0:34:27both inspirational in their own rights.
0:34:27 > 0:34:30And Adrian has been very much a fighter and I think he might have
0:34:30 > 0:34:32met his match in little Jamie.
0:34:32 > 0:34:35But I wonder if he can find it in his heart to help this
0:34:35 > 0:34:38budding fencing talent. Let's go and find out.
0:34:39 > 0:34:42I've arranged to meet Adrian just up the road from the park where Jamie
0:34:42 > 0:34:45and his family are enjoying an afternoon out.
0:34:45 > 0:34:50So time to discover precisely how Adrian intends helping Jamie further
0:34:50 > 0:34:51his Paralympian dream.
0:34:52 > 0:34:54So, you met up with Jamie, how did it go?
0:34:54 > 0:34:58He's fantastic, Jamie's such a great kid, and it was just his family,
0:34:58 > 0:35:01as well, the unit, that they are all together as one.
0:35:01 > 0:35:04They are going through it all. And, erm...
0:35:04 > 0:35:06It was wonderful, really was.
0:35:06 > 0:35:08- He loves his sport, doesn't he? - He does.
0:35:08 > 0:35:10And he loves my sport at the best.
0:35:10 > 0:35:12Wheelchair fencing, which for such a young child,
0:35:12 > 0:35:16normally it's football or rugby, but no, he loves my sport.
0:35:16 > 0:35:19He's fantastic, he's really inspiring for me as well.
0:35:19 > 0:35:21Could you see and understand, I suppose,
0:35:21 > 0:35:23the struggle that he's going through?
0:35:23 > 0:35:25Yes, most definitely.
0:35:25 > 0:35:26I've also been there myself as well.
0:35:26 > 0:35:29So, it was quite emotional for me, if I'm really honest with you,
0:35:29 > 0:35:30talking to him.
0:35:30 > 0:35:34I can relate to what he's going through, and this is the
0:35:34 > 0:35:35reason why it's touched me so much.
0:35:35 > 0:35:37It's great he's got the passion, though.
0:35:37 > 0:35:39So, do you reckon you can help him at all?
0:35:39 > 0:35:41I definitely think so.
0:35:41 > 0:35:44I'm really excited about it. I'm really...
0:35:44 > 0:35:47- You've a big grin...- I know. I'm really, really excited.
0:35:47 > 0:35:51Just because I know how much it changed my life, and it will change
0:35:51 > 0:35:52his and his family's as well.
0:35:52 > 0:35:54So what are you going to do?
0:35:54 > 0:35:58Well, because he keeps borrowing all this kit,
0:35:58 > 0:36:01what I've decided is I'm going to purchase the entire lot for him.
0:36:01 > 0:36:03So, not only the training equipment,
0:36:03 > 0:36:07but also the competition equipment as well, which is...
0:36:08 > 0:36:09..a huge amount.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12But for him to take that next up, it's what he needs.
0:36:12 > 0:36:14So, I'm going to do it.
0:36:14 > 0:36:17Gosh, I wouldn't have no idea how much that stuff sort of costs?
0:36:17 > 0:36:19You're looking probably just over £1,000.
0:36:19 > 0:36:20- Wow!- But what I've done,
0:36:20 > 0:36:23I've gone a little bit extra because I'm so excited
0:36:23 > 0:36:25- and bought him everything. - Right, OK.
0:36:25 > 0:36:27- Just got the shop.- I've just done it.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30So, it's going to be well over that.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32Goodness me, that's very, very generous of you.
0:36:32 > 0:36:33No, it's my pleasure.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36You can tell, it's given me so much... It's just so much
0:36:36 > 0:36:37enjoyment to do it.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40Have you put all your thoughts down in a letter for the family to read?
0:36:40 > 0:36:42I have, I have.
0:36:42 > 0:36:45And I'm looking forward to giving it to Andy so he can read it out.
0:36:45 > 0:36:48OK, I know they are having a little day out around the corner,
0:36:48 > 0:36:51- so let's leave these, shall we, and just go and do it now?- Definitely.
0:36:51 > 0:36:54- Cos that smile on your face says it all. Come on, let's go.- OK.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56It's the moment we've all been waiting for,
0:36:56 > 0:36:59coming clean to Jamie and his family about what we've really been up to.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03And revealing to them that Jamie's in for a game-changing gift.
0:37:05 > 0:37:09So, Jamie and his family are having a little get-together here.
0:37:09 > 0:37:11They have no idea we are coming, of course.
0:37:11 > 0:37:15- It's great.- It's going to be a nice surprise, isn't it?- It is, it is. Really looking forward to it.
0:37:15 > 0:37:19- Are you nervous?- No, not at all, I'm more excited, if I'm honest.
0:37:19 > 0:37:20Yeah. I'm excited too.
0:37:20 > 0:37:22He such a great kid and it's a wonderful family,
0:37:22 > 0:37:25- so, happy to do this. - I can't wait to see his face.
0:37:25 > 0:37:32I know, he's going to be like, "Oh, my goodness, what's going on?"
0:37:32 > 0:37:34Look at that branch there, Jamie.
0:37:36 > 0:37:37- Hello!- Hi!- How are you?- Hi, guys.
0:37:39 > 0:37:44- How are you? I'm Aled Jones from the BBC, nice to meet you.- Hi!
0:37:44 > 0:37:45How are you, nice to see you.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47- How you doing?- Hi, how are you?- Can you say hi, Jamie?
0:37:47 > 0:37:50Now, listen, you thought we were making a programme
0:37:50 > 0:37:51about aspiring athletes.
0:37:53 > 0:37:56It's not the full story, just to let you know, is it?
0:37:56 > 0:38:00It's not, Aled. I was so taken back by Jamie's story,
0:38:00 > 0:38:02and just how passionate
0:38:02 > 0:38:03you all are as a family,
0:38:03 > 0:38:08that I've wrote a few words down in this letter
0:38:08 > 0:38:11that I'd like you to read out loud for me, Andy, if you don't mind?
0:38:11 > 0:38:13I'd love to. Sorry, it's a bit of a shock. Sorry about that.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15THEY LAUGH
0:38:15 > 0:38:16I was too busy picking blackberries.
0:38:16 > 0:38:20- Yeah, you were. Having far too good a time. Do you want me to take the envelope for you?- Yeah.- Right.
0:38:20 > 0:38:22"Dear Jamie and family.
0:38:22 > 0:38:26"Words cannot express just how inspiring and emotional it was
0:38:26 > 0:38:30"meeting you all. Even though it's been less than a week since we met,
0:38:30 > 0:38:34"I often find myself thinking, 'I wonder how the fam is.'"
0:38:34 > 0:38:36He's fine.
0:38:36 > 0:38:41"Andy, our heartfelt chat at the kitchen table still resonates and
0:38:41 > 0:38:45"it has truly touched me how a seven-year-old boy's life story can
0:38:45 > 0:38:49"be so close to mine. I'm thrilled Jamie has found something that saved my life.
0:38:49 > 0:38:51"I was so taken aback by Jamie's passion,
0:38:51 > 0:38:55"his belief in himself and his love of sport, which we both share,
0:38:55 > 0:38:57"wheelchair fencing. With this in mind,
0:38:57 > 0:39:01"I'd like to give Jamie the full practice and competition fencing kit
0:39:01 > 0:39:05- "and equipment he needs to take the next step in fencing." Wow!- Yay!
0:39:05 > 0:39:09"It is my honour to play a small part in supporting this inspiring
0:39:09 > 0:39:12"young man, and I hope Jamie continues to live by my motto,
0:39:12 > 0:39:14"inspire, believe, succeed."
0:39:14 > 0:39:16Yay!
0:39:16 > 0:39:19- That's amazing.- Wow, what do you say?- Wow, Jamie.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- Thank you.- Gold medal on the way, I reckon.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23Definitely. Definitely.
0:39:23 > 0:39:26- Wow, Jamie.- And I want your autograph in a couple of years, as well.
0:39:26 > 0:39:29- Will it make a big difference?- It'll be amazing. Yeah, he's...
0:39:30 > 0:39:35We've been fortunate enough to where we are now just having his own foil,
0:39:35 > 0:39:38but to have everything, would be...
0:39:38 > 0:39:39- Fantastic.- Oh. And that's...
0:39:39 > 0:39:40PHOEBE LAUGHS
0:39:40 > 0:39:42Are you happy for your brother, as well?
0:39:42 > 0:39:44- I'm a little bit speechless, really. - I'm a little bit speechless.
0:39:44 > 0:39:48Just think, you've got your own competition kit,
0:39:48 > 0:39:52your own practice kit, as well, so you have everything.
0:39:52 > 0:39:54Is that amazing?
0:39:54 > 0:39:56I think he's overwhelmed.
0:39:56 > 0:39:58- You've gone shy?- That's very unlike Jamie, as well.
0:39:58 > 0:40:02- JAMIE:- Thank you.- You're welcome, give me a high five.
0:40:02 > 0:40:03Good job.
0:40:03 > 0:40:05Yeah, I think I want one as well. Is that all right?
0:40:05 > 0:40:09OK, Aled, would you do the honours, presenting Jamie with his equipment.
0:40:11 > 0:40:14Adrian's not messing about. Jamie won't have to wait for his gift.
0:40:14 > 0:40:17Adrian's brought everything with him.
0:40:17 > 0:40:19Oh, my word.
0:40:19 > 0:40:21So, what we've got, we have the full kit here.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24So, let's look at your practice kit first.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27This is your jacket, and then...
0:40:27 > 0:40:31this is called plastron, so this goes underneath your jacket
0:40:31 > 0:40:33- to protect you. - Wow, check that out.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36You have your bib, that goes over your jacket.
0:40:36 > 0:40:40So... And then what else do we have, it's like Christmas for me, I love this.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42So, we have your mask, which is an extra small,
0:40:42 > 0:40:44so hopefully that will be good.
0:40:44 > 0:40:48I've even bought you Great Britain fencing socks as well.
0:40:48 > 0:40:51- Amazing.- Amazing.- And then my favourite bits,
0:40:51 > 0:40:54I have bought you two brand-new foils.
0:40:54 > 0:40:55- Oh, Wow.- Wow.
0:40:55 > 0:41:00So you have two brand-new foils and they're your size as well.
0:41:00 > 0:41:01So what do you think about that?
0:41:01 > 0:41:03- Thank you.- You're welcome.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05- It's amazing.- Amazing, aren't they?
0:41:07 > 0:41:10- Thank you so much, guys.- Oh, no, it's a real pleasure. It's a real pleasure.
0:41:10 > 0:41:13Listen we'll leave you to your afternoon together,
0:41:13 > 0:41:15and I can't wait to see you in the gear.
0:41:15 > 0:41:18- Yeah, yeah. Definitely.- See you later.- Thanks, guys.- Take care.
0:41:18 > 0:41:19Bye! See you later.
0:41:20 > 0:41:22- Well done, mate.- Thank you.
0:41:22 > 0:41:25- That was lovely.- That went well, didn't it?- Yeah.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27It's got your favourite colour on it.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30- They are bigger than you!- I think they're going to go right up to your nose.
0:41:30 > 0:41:33Ecstatic. He's been through a lot, and I think to have the opportunity,
0:41:33 > 0:41:35it's fantastic. We just didn't expect it.
0:41:35 > 0:41:38It was jaw-dropping, I think you could say.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41- How is it, Jamie?- Really good.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45- Properly special, isn't it?- And, look - they go up to here.
0:41:45 > 0:41:49It's amazing. I'm really happy
0:41:49 > 0:41:51to have more equipment.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53That's amazing.
0:41:54 > 0:41:57Let's see how that fits. It's even got its own...
0:41:57 > 0:41:59You don't even have to slide it on.
0:41:59 > 0:42:02The way that Jamie buried himself into his daddy's legs,
0:42:02 > 0:42:05I think he was very surprised and taken aback by that appearance.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07It was an amazing feeling and I'm completely overwhelmed
0:42:07 > 0:42:09and inspired myself.
0:42:09 > 0:42:11How does it feel?
0:42:12 > 0:42:13Quite heavy.
0:42:13 > 0:42:16My next thing is hopefully going to the Olympics
0:42:16 > 0:42:19and do wheelchair fencing.
0:42:19 > 0:42:20It makes me feel amazing,
0:42:20 > 0:42:24just my pleasure to do what I could to help him along the way.
0:42:24 > 0:42:26Silence speaks a thousand words with Jamie,
0:42:26 > 0:42:28so I think he realises just the enormity of what he's got,
0:42:28 > 0:42:32which is unbelievable, an unbelievable gift.
0:42:34 > 0:42:36What an overwhelming experience that was.
0:42:36 > 0:42:40Adrian can obviously see Jamie has so much sporting potential and now,
0:42:40 > 0:42:41thanks to Adrian's generosity, well,
0:42:41 > 0:42:46we could well have a future fencing champion on our hands.
0:42:46 > 0:42:49Time will tell. We wish Jamie well in all he does.