A MAN who "thought he would never walk again" was able to walk out of the hospital thanks to unique rehabilitation programme at a Glasgow hospital.

Robbie Bell was diagnosed with Incomplete Tetraplegia – which resulted in partial paralysis - after he fell from his bicycle.

In less than six weeks, with help of Queen Elizabeth University Hospitals National Spinal Injuries Unit the keen fisherman regained feeling in his limbs.

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But it was is love of fishing that helped motivate him to go through the rehab after fishing company Loop gifted him a new rod.

Robbie said: “The staff have been excellent in helping support me on the road to recovery since I was admitted to the Spinal Unit in August. There were points where I thought I’d never walk again but taking things as they come, and making gradual improvements in my movement over the past six weeks has got me into a position where I can look forward to catching the end of the fishing season up north.

“I’d like to thank the team at the QEUH and a huge thanks to Loop who were kind enough to donate a brand new fishing rod to help as part of my rehab.”

Occupational therapist Amanda Howat and Physiotherapist Susan Gilhespie, who have been working closely with Robbie since he was admitted, highlighted the importance of patients having interest focused rehabilitation as part of their recovery process.

Amanda said: “For any rehab patient, the journey to recovery can be long and difficult. Anything to make that slightly easier, and to keep patients motivated, is a huge advantage. Robbie has been able to practice doing something he loves, and that has provided additional motivation for him to get back on his feet. It’s fantastic to see how quickly he’s progressed.