"I was lying in a bomb crater that was filling up with my own blood." IED survivor tells his story

Stephan van Niekerk swapped his native South Africa for a career in the British Army - but his dream of a life in service was cut short when he stood on an IED. The injuries he suffered were devastating.
The blast didn’t just cost him both his legs and several fingers, he lost his career and sense of purpose too.
But having brought himself back from the brink, Stephan now dedicates his life to raising money - and changing the perception of what disabled people can achieve.
Please take a few moments to listen to his inspirational story.
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Thank you for your support.

[@catlee8064]

Still have nightmares to this day...punch the walls....hide during the fireworks...sit with my back to the wall in pubs (when i can force myself out) almost zero social life. And the joke of it is, all i got was some small shrapnel wounds, nothing like this guy here. Well done for climbing out of it matey.

[@satansmokess420l5]

Your feeling are valid no matter the physical extent of your injury❤️ I hope one day you are in a happier state of mind my friend best of luck

[@nataliefennell3176]

I am a firm beliver of service dogs. They are there and got your back no judgement, ever loving. I hope you reach out and find help. Thinking of you. Good luck.

[@hottomek7423]

Cat, whilst you may not have had extensive physical injuries it shows that the war has had a great impact on your mental well being. I know its terribly hard man, please never give up. You are a survivor as much as this man.

[@catlee8064]

@@hottomek7423 Ok, you got me crying now....Thanks for the good words.

[@catlee8064]

@@nataliefennell3176 Cheers Nat, Im a stubborn bugger though, dont like to think i need help.

[@Spartacus45]

I too am a triple amputee after our WMIK went over an IED (4x soviet legacy mortars) and ended my 12 year career. Without the help of various veterans charities I would not have managed. Fortunately I have a great partner too who has stayed with me through it all, bless her!! With squaddie mentality we cope, but please support our veterans!! 💂‍♂️🇬🇧

[@hottomek7423]

Thank you sir. Please, keep on. ❤‍🩹

[@vivawarrior8397]

Brave fella god bless and god bless the veterans' foundation

[@gieljanstouten]

Hi stephan your video helps me battle my own mental troubles and makes me gratefull for what i have. Keep fighting the good fight brother. Greetings from the neighbours NL NL NL

[@s.v.corycia5643]

A role model for everyone. Thank you for your positivity and service. God bless you all.

[@JamesFromTexas]

When I got blown up I said it felt like being slapped by the hand of God over my entire body. I feel you, brother. Not a great feeling at all.

[@Keithrrr]

🙏

[@paulinejackson5489]

Literally I am just in the supporting the veterans for the commitment and if I was to win the lottery it would go straight to the heroes and the family members who have lost loved ones this broke My heart hearing and also feel honoured to hear this brave soldiers story I really wish you eevery happiness in your life and I have vnot experienced what you went through however I do understand thevfeelingvof how my life will be after having a massive stroke and multiple head injuries and woke up in intense care fighting for my life i was in a drugvinduced coma for 3 months and my family and friends were told if i did survive when they took me of life supportvi may never walk or talk again despite the odds against me I believevin god and i have stories likevyours who are amputies and its a true inspiration to me im walking in doors with a quad stick im talking imbstillbin recovery and I will continue to get stronger a day at a time and you well just for being you a hero inspirstionbto keepbme fighting be string and positive i admire you and bless you your family illb prey for you i take this time to wish you a happy christmas and amazing new year

[@ziggyzagg561]

£10..00 a month. You could win. if you do or don't. It dunt matter. support our troops.

[@Funnyhub.2.]

Am that army mad bro

[@joshmajor8662]

Good lord Martans a looker!!!! Haha 😂Hell of a guy, but definitely a looker Lol

[@ivangamer8022]

What you get for selling your soul to the devil

[@bofee1]

huh

[@joshuahedges4882]

come on mate....these lads are not the ones you should be pissed at!! its the politicians you should be pissed at

[@rodrodriguez9724]

I did 5 combat tours and I sure did not sell my soul. I have heard this saying that might help you understand, “There are only 2 kinds of soldiers in the world, those who serve evil men and those that serve free men! Guess which one we served?