Jordan Chiedozie
Jordan Chiedozie, a former football player, has been on a challenging recovery journey following a life-altering accident. Chiedozie was involved in a severe incident when he was struck by a car on the M27 while changing a tyre. The accident resulted in the loss of his leg, and he has since been fitted with a prosthetic as part of his ongoing recovery process. The football community has rallied around him, providing significant support through a GoFundMe campaign and other means.
Chiedozie said: “a lot of physio work. Just getting used to it, getting used to getting up on my feet and using it again.”
Reflecting on the support, he said: “It’s been really nice to see and it helps to see everyone’s support. It’s not something I expected, but it’s really good to see. I think you just have to [stay positive], you just have to get on with it. If you stay too much thinking of what happened and the past, I don’t think it helps with the recovery and being able to get as close as to normal as before, going forward.”
Chiedozie said: “It should be good. I played in a preseason game for Bournemouth against Bashley when I was an under 21 so it will be good to see them playing that game. That’s a tricky question, I’d probably say Bashley, but I always want Bournemouth to do well as well! But I’d probably say I want Bashley to do well in the game. But obviously it’s a preseason game, so it’s more about getting time and fitness for the players. So as long as everyone gets through it fine and gets what they need to get out of it, it’ll be good for both teams.”
Chiedozie’s accident has sparked a wave of support from the football community, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over £34,075. This overwhelming response highlights the solidarity within the sports community, as clubs and individuals across the region have come together to aid Chiedozie’s recovery. The accident occurred while Chiedozie was assisting Bashley physio Reighan Taylor, and since then, he has been focusing on adapting to his new prosthetic and undergoing extensive physiotherapy.
As he looks forward to the upcoming game between AFC Bournemouth’s development squad and Bashley, Chiedozie remains optimistic. The match, scheduled for Friday, July 11, at 7.30 pm, holds sentimental value for him, having played for Bournemouth in his youth. Tickets for the game are available through the Bashley website, and it promises to be an event that underscores the importance of community and resilience.