Invictus Games medallist Michael Mellon has reached the final stage of a prestigious national award scheme.
The Cardenden veteran has been nominated for sporting excellence accolade in the Soldiering On Awards.
They recognise the outstanding achievements of those who have served their country, and have overcome challenges and demonstrated outstanding achievements.
Michael was the only Scot in the UK Invictus 2018 team which competed in Sydney.
The team has also been nominated.
Father-of-three Michael broke his leg while playing rugby for the RAF in 2001, which resulted in compartment syndrome.
Despite 12 operations, he remained in constant pain due to severe nerve damage and had his lower leg amputated in 2013.
“It was the hardest call of my life but it worked out to be the right call.
“I get phantom pains a few times a week and there are periods that I can’t wear my prosthetic leg but I’m a lot more active and in less pain than before the amputation.”
The senior aircraftsman lost his confidence as well as his career, struggled with depression and missed the camaraderie of forces life on civvy street.
He admitted that after he was medically discharged he thought his life was over.
However, being supported by Help for Heroes helped Michael on the road to recovery and he has won five medals in the Invictus Games, established by Prince Harry.
He won silver and bronze in Canada in 2017 and two silvers and a bronze in Sydney last year.
As a result he was asked to help set up a group in Fife for the charity Sporting Memories who help older people, including those with dementia, reconnect through sport.
Michael, who has been unable to work since he was injured, is also being considered for a job at Edinburgh Airport and credits his new found confidence to Invictus.
With a great passion for sport, Michael, who coaches the under 14s at Kirkcaldy Rugby Club, stressed his success came only with the support of his team mates and coaches.
“Being selected for the Invictus Games has been huge for me, a life changing event.
“I wanted to be a part of the team to help my confidence and feel the power of teamwork again.
“I regained that in bucket loads. The adrenalin it gives you and the buzz is electric.”
The winners will be announced next month.
