Tom Peebles. Husband, father, grandfather, 5th Dan Sensei of JKA Stevenage Karate Club and the fittest 50 year old there was - or so we thought.

On 11th May, Tom suffered a series of debilitating strokes, rendering him hospital bound with a number of significant injuries. Although Tom has shown enormous strength, courage and steeled determination to recover from these injuries, it will be a long process, one which requires Toms combined strengths together with the continued love and support of his family and friends.

Tom is the head instructor of JKA Stevenage Karate Club and has been so for 13 years. In that time, Tom has nurtured and taught 100's students of all ages and abilities (children and adults) and whilst teaching them the art of Karate has encouraged and inspired them to be more confident and increase their self esteem. Tom's tuition has resulted in a number of his students representing England with some medalling at European championships, dozens of black belts and numerous students becoming instructors/coaches.

Tom is also self-employed and whilst he is hospitalised, he has no income, but the bills still need to be paid. There are scores of people who are aware of Tom's illness and his inspirational fight to get better and thankfully are willing to help in any way they can. Toms biggest battle is getting better, but also has the secondary battle of ensuring that the monthly bills are paid. Which is where the friends and family bit comes in. A tremendous weight would be lifted for Tom and his family if we were able to raise some funds to keep things ticking over and leave Tom to concentrate on his recovery.

Please, if you are able, any contribution would be very much appreciated and if you are unable to make a monetary donation, any words of encouragement or perhaps a video message that can be passed on to Tom would be just as well received.

Thank you in advance for your kind thoughts and consideration