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Family of Peterhead fisherman who lost leg at sea launch fundraising drive

Paul Buchan lost his leg in a tragic accident at sea.
Paul Buchan lost his leg in a tragic accident at sea.

The family of a fisherman who lost his leg following a horrific ordeal in the North Sea has launched a fundraising bid to help him when he finally gets to return home.

Paul Buchan, from Peterhead, is currently staying at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary while he undergoes intense physiotherapy to deal with the horrendous injury.

It is unlikely the 22-year-old will ever be able to return to sea – the only job he has ever known.

And with a young child to support, Thomas – who turned one this week – and his girlfriend, Jan, his family know there is a tough road ahead.

Paul with Thomas on his first birthday, with girlfriend Jan
Paul with Thomas on his first birthday, with girlfriend Jan

Last night, his aunt, Margaret McDonald, who also lives Peterhead, said they were facing mounting costs for an electric wheelchair and a ramp that Mr Buchan can use when he gets out of hospital.

She urged anyone who has any ideas about ways the family can raise money to get in touch.

She has set up fundraising page, where people can donate to their appeal if they wish.

“As his family, we’re trying to do anything we can to help him,” she said.

“Four weeks on, he will be getting home for visits and we need help to make these easier for him.

“We are a big family, but we don’t really know where to start. If anyone wants to help or has any ideas, we’d be so grateful.”

Mr Buchan was airlifted from the Banff-registered Fruitful Vine vessel 50 miles south-east of the coast of Peterhead on June 13, after a rope wrapped around his shin and “snapped” his right leg in two.

Paul with Thomas
Paul with Thomas

The damage was so severe that surgeons in Aberdeen had no choice but to amputate the limb.

The devastating injury has left Mr Buchan in a wheelchair as he battles back to health.

But despite the tragic accident – the “worst possible thing” that could have happened to him – he insists he is grateful to still be alive and thankful that he will be able to see his little boy grow up.

This week, his son visited him in hospital on the day of his first birthday, where Mr Buchan got to watch him open his presents.

Mrs McDonald said it was a case of ensuring her nephew remains as positive as he has been so far.

“We’ll do anything to help him in his hour of need,” she said.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has donated so far. No matter how small the donation is every little helps.”

To donate to the family’s appeal, visit www.gofundme.com/yt7f8v4