Andrew Simister

When a serious motorcycle accident resulted in an above-knee amputation, Andrew was determined that it would not define his future. Instead, he focused on rehabilitation and found new opportunities through sport.

Andrew is a former director in the digital screens industry and a lifelong sports enthusiast, having completed multiple marathons and maintained a high-level of fitness. When he received the news that his twin brother had suffered a life-altering stroke, Andrew stepped away from work to travel and spend more time with his family. Reflecting on that period, Andrew said: “I wanted to enjoy my life as much as I can and do all the things that I wanted to do.”

On 25th February 2022, while stationary in a lay-by on his motorcycle, Andrew was struck from behind by a pickup truck travelling at speed. He sustained multiple serious injuries, including compound fractures, a broken back and a dislocated knee. Following a 19-day hospital stay, an above-knee amputation was performed on 2nd March 2022.

Rehabilitation began shortly afterwards with multidisciplinary support. Throughout his recovery, Andrew remained focused on what lay ahead rather than what had happened. Having always prioritised his health and fitness, he approached rehabilitation with the same determination, saying: “I’ve always kept myself fit, and I vowed not to be a victim of my accident.”

In January 2023, Andrew began outpatient care with PACE, now operating as Dorset Orthopaedic. Following a comprehensive assessment, he was prescribed a Genium X3 and progressed through five Direct Socket fittings as his limb volume and activity levels evolved. Physiotherapy with the team, including focused strength and conditioning work, supported significant improvements in his mobility and confidence.

Andrew described his first impressions of the clinic as fantastic and quickly felt reassured that he was in the right place to achieve his goals. Andrew explained: “I knew you had the products to help make me the best amputee I could be.”

Remaining active was central to Andrew’s rehabilitation journey. Alongside continued gym training, swimming and boxing, he was introduced to Padel by friends and family in May 2023. What began as a taster session quickly developed into weekly inclusive and private coaching sessions, along with regular weekend matches.

Andrew was the first English amputee competing on the tour and is fortunate to compete alongside his son as his Padel partner in some of the events.

The worldwide series supports the bid for Padel to be recognised as a competitive sport within the Paralympic Games. Andrew who was the first English amputee competing on the tour and is fortunate to compete alongside his son as his Padel partner in some of the events.. The tour hosts monthly events, which he balances with family life and running his new digital screens business.

Reflecting on the opportunities and experiences that have followed his rehabilitation, Andrew said: “My life hasn’t changed, it’s enhanced.”

Andrew’s story highlights how specialist clinical care, rehabilitation and determination can help people move forward with confidence after limb loss. With the right support in place, he has progressed from the early stages of recovery to competing on an international stage while continuing to pursue the active lifestyle that has always been important to him.