The family of Gary Crutchley is raising money after this local dad, brother, son and friend suffered a life-changing stroke in 2020, aged just 41. 

Gary is now impaired with both physical and cognitive restrictions that have completely altered the way he lives his life. He has endured over two years of hospitalisation and brain rehabilitation.

It is hoped that soon, Gary will be discharged from the brain rehabilitation unit and into a 'new life'. Funds raised will go towards building a home suitable for Gary when he is discharged. 

As Gary's sister Serene explains: "Social housing is a huge problem. There is a lack of disabled living in the UK, especially for young disabled people that want to live an independent 'assisted' life rather than a life within a care facility. 

"He has been offered care-homes, but that would be stripping him of his rights to independence. What he requires is a home suitable for a disabled person."

Gary's sister Serene has been working alongside the rest of the family to raise money to help Gary in the next stage of his life (Image - Serene Crutchley)

This new Stockport home will allow Gary - a born and bred Stopfordian - to live his life as normally as possible, surrounded by his family and friends. 

Before suffering his stroke, Gary was very active, pursuing a whole host of outdoor activities, working hard, and caring for his family. 

Gary still has all his memories, and keeps his outgoing personality; he was - and remains - 'the life and soul of any event', as described by his sister. It is therefore all the more important that Gary can pursue as normal a life as possible in suitable disabled accommodation. 

Gary's family has planning permission to convert a building to the requirements of a disabled person, and has the assistance of the disabled charity Lets for Life. All that is required now is funds. 

£6,000 has already been raised through a variety of different means. His best friend is completing a 56-mile hike in 24 hours on the weekend of 2 September, and other charity events and auctions have provided additional funds. 

A GoFundMe is also live, which readers can donate to HERE.

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