Michael Lewis a former soldier and now Poppy Appeal Fundraiser is gearing up for his next big challenge to raise vital funds for the Legion, who supported him after life-changing injuries in Afghanistan. 

Michael Lewis, 35, is the Bedfordshire Community Fundraiser for the Poppy Appeal, and is set to compete in his second boxing match on Saturday 6th July in Bedford. Despite being a below the knee amputee, that hasn’t stopped Michael from training six days a week in the lead
up to the big fight and he hopes to inspire others to take up new challenges just as he has done since leaving service. 

Michael said "Taking part in the Contender White Collar Boxing is a way of giving back to such a great
organisation as the Royal British Legion which supported me with my transition into civilian life, as well as proving anything is possible no matter what you’re ability. Since losing my leg in 2008 during
service in Afghanistan, I have been focused on challenging myself no matter what the limitations and in the past have completed two mud runs and The Royal Parks Half Marathon just last year. All donations go towards the Legion and I am proof of where the money goes and how it helps. They provided me with advice on Armed
Forces compensation and funded a new wet room which was a welcome addition to my home.”

Michael served with the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment as a Corporal and had been in the Army since 2000.
In 2008 everything changed, with only six weeks left to go of his tour before he
returned home, Michael and his platoon were engaged in an intense fire-fight with the Taliban and Michael was hit by a British Artillery 105mm round. He was left with blast wounds which nearly severed his left arm, shrapnel wounds to his left knee and blast wounds to his right leg which led to a below knee amputation. 

The injures lead to Michael being medically discharged from the Army in 2012 and life as Michael knew it was changed forever, consequently his dream of serving in the British Armed Forces was over. However, through Michael’s treatment, rehabilitation and transition
from military to civilian street the Legion has been there for him and he is now a fundraiser.

“The boxing challenge has to be one of the hardest things I have trained for, but I want to promote the Legion
for what it is, showing that donations really do help individuals like myself
and all those within the Armed Forces community including families.”