In a heart-wrenching account, 18-year-old Adam Golebiewski, a promising young footballer, reveals the profound impact that a reckless act by a drunk driver has inflicted upon his life. Adam, hailing from Banff, Aberdeenshire, was a passenger in a car driven by 19-year-old Arran Paterson when they were involved in a tragic accident in Macduff last September. The consequences of that night were severe, leading Adam to face the harrowing experience of having his lower legs amputated.
Adam’s journey to recovery has been fraught with challenges, yet his resilience shines through. After several months of intensive rehabilitation at Woodend Hospital in Aberdeen, he found himself walking again, albeit on prosthetic legs. Having recently attended his court hearing unaided, it was a bittersweet moment. He openly expressed his feelings of anger and betrayal towards Paterson, stating, “I will never forgive that man for what he has done to me.” The emotions he carries are not just related to his own suffering; he recognizes the ripple effects of Paterson’s actions on his family and friends as well.
The crash, which occurred on Union Road in the early hours of September 8, led to significant injuries for both Adam and the other two passengers in the vehicle. Adam’s life was irrevocably altered, as he now finds himself grappling with the reality of living without legs. While he describes his determination to remain positive and enjoy life, the weight of what happened is ever-present. “I just don’t have legs anymore,” he reflected, emphasizing the seriousness of his situation.
During his court appearance, Adam’s strength was evident as he walked in confidently, a testament to the hard work he has put into his rehabilitation. This was a significant milestone for him, especially after celebrating his 18th birthday in the hospital. He is thankful for the support his friends and family have consistently provided, helping him through the tumultuous eleven months since the accident. Expressing gratitude, Adam recognized their vital role, saying, “Everyone has kept me positive to be honest; they have helped me through everything.”
The emotional toll of the incident is further compounded by frustration at the delay in sentencing for Paterson, who pleaded guilty to several charges, including dangerous driving while under the influence and without insurance. He admitted to losing control of the vehicle at high speed before colliding with a wall. After hearing the guilty pleas, Sheriff Graham Buchanan decided to defer sentencing to allow time for background reports, and during this period, Paterson’s bail status was maintained, alongside a driving ban.
In the aftermath of the crash, Adam has taken a stand not only for himself but also to raise awareness about the consequences of irresponsible driving. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the life-altering effects that one reckless choice can have, not only on victims like Adam but also on those around them. As he continues to adapt to life with prosthetic legs, he carries not just the scars of a traumatic past but also the determination to redefine his future, focusing on positive experiences despite the challenges he faces.
Throughout his recovery, Adam has maintained his passion for football and is hopeful for a future where he can play again, symbolizing not just a return to normalcy but a declaration of resilience. His courage in the face of adversity exemplifies a remarkable spirit, inspiring those around him to rise above hardship and find light even in the darkest moments. Adam Golebiewski’s journey exemplifies the incredible strength of the human spirit and serves as a powerful call for collective responsibility in our communities.
