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Mark Bairstow – From Amputation to Disability Adviser

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It was really good to hear from Mark Bairstow again. You may remember that Mark very kindly let us publish his moving diary when he was facing up to the elective amputation of his foot. It was understandably a very emotional and worrying time for him and inspiring to read how he faced up so courageously to this life-changing operation. You will find a link to Mark’s Diary at the bottom of this post.

Mark is doing so well almost exactly a year after surgery and has regained his independence both inside, walking unaided, and outside as well as he now has his own car, which has in his own words “given me my freedom back”.

One thing that meant a huge amount to Mark while he was in hospital was a visit from an fellow amputee and, having tracked his mystery visitor down, he is now meeting other amputees for shared walks and activities. This shows so clearly the value of  ‘peer group’ visits.

Mark has put his previous experience in the building industry and his recent experience as a new amputee together and is now offering an Accessibility Advisory Business. Accessibility is an issue that affects many amputees and those with other disabilities. There is often a distinct lack of joined-up thinking by government and councils and an Advisory Business from someone who has experience of both sides of the situation seems a really worthwhile venture.

We are delighted to support Mark by posting his Business Cards and Business Statement so that you can contact him for advice. You can download pdf’s of Mark’s statement and cards to save and print for your own use through the links below.

It’s wonderful to see someone turning what could be seen as a negative into a positive. You’re an inspiration, Mark, and we wish you the best of success with your business.

Hello,
 
I would like to introduce ‘STEPPS’ my Accessibility Advisory Business.
 
I have found that many places that I try to access either on my prosthetic leg or in my wheelchair say they have full disabled access but really they do not have it, or it is very clear that when they have being constructed they are of poor design and are very difficult for people with mobility issues to access.
 
So, along with my 35+ years knowledge in the building and construction industry from a apprentice joiner to a site and contracts manager you may agree that I have the grounding to advise on access issues (& I don’t charge an Arm & a Leg !).
 
 
 
 

Links (will open as pdf’s in new tabs):