A former RAF parachutist, who had both his legs amputated while on active duty in Afghanistan, yesterday visited pupils at an Aberdeen school.
Inverness-born Sergeant Duncan Slater met youngsters from P7 to sixth year at St Margaret’s School for Girls.
And they were enthralled as he spoke about his expedition to the South Pole.
In July 2009, while serving in Afghanistan, an improvised explosive device blew up Mr Slater’s vehicle.
He suffered a broken back and both his legs were shattered – the only unbroken part of his body was his right arm.
After 12 months of rehabilitation, it became clear both legs would need to be amputated, but Mr Slater remained undaunted.
In 2013, he became the first double leg amputee to reach the South Pole as part of the 200-mile Walking with the Wounded South Pole Allied Challenge, alongside a team which included Prince Harry.
Mr Slater said: “My job with Walking with the Wounded is to interact with schools and show, hopefully, that a life-changing event or disability doesn’t have to be negative.
“I want to show you can try anything and that having no legs doesn’t mean you can’t challenge yourself.
“I approached St Margaret’s and asked if they would like me to visit. I think leading by example is important in life.
“And I can physically show what happened to me, how I came full circle and went on to be lucky enough to go to the South Pole.
“When I was blown up, I thought my life would be limited and I was told by my doctor I would never walk or run without pain again.
“I was determined to prove otherwise. I want to show others that amputees can do anything. To have the opportunity to help a charity that is willing to do so much is beyond words.”
St Margaret’s School for Girls head teacher Anna Tomlinson said: “When Duncan asked if he could come to St Margaret’s to speak to the girls, we jumped at the chance. His life and experiences have been quite extraordinary.
“It’s very important for the girls to meet individuals who have overcome huge challenges, and for them to understand that with perseverance and hard work, nothing is impossible.”