Catrin Pugh, a courageous survivor, defied all odds after sustaining 96% burns in a tragic bus crash. Now, she dedicates her life as a physiotherapist, helping others overcome their challenges.
In 2013, Catrin’s life took a devastating turn when the coach she was traveling on burst into flames near Alpe d’Huez. The heroic driver, Maurice Wrightson, sacrificed himself to protect the passengers, while Catrin and three other British travelers suffered severe injuries. At just 19 years old, Catrin faced unimaginable pain and a mere one in a thousand chance of survival.
For 90 excruciating days, Catrin remained in a coma, clinging to life. Miraculously, she emerged, although her entire body had been ravaged by the fire. The inferno spared only the soles of her feet and patches on her scalp. The medical team believes she is the oldest person in history to have survived such severe burns.
Over the next eight months, Catrin underwent over 200 operations. Her resilience and determination guided her towards her dream of attending university at King’s College London, where she studied physiotherapy. Despite the doubts that plagued her, she triumphed over adversity.
Reflecting on her journey, Catrin said, “When I had my accident, I didn’t think I’d graduate from university or even think I’d go to university.” However, the dedicated physiotherapists who helped her regain her mobility and independence inspired her to pursue a career in the field.
Physiotherapy aligned perfectly with Catrin’s active nature. She realized the profound impact that her physiotherapists had on her life, giving her the ability to walk, use her hands, and regain her autonomy. Fueled by their unwavering support, she now pays it forward by working with organizations such as the Katie Piper Foundation and the charity Changing Faces. Additionally, she has become a role model for Avon, embracing her uniqueness and challenging society’s perception of beauty.
Cultivating a mindset of inclusivity, Catrin aims to change people’s perspective, showing that scars and wheelchairs are symbols of strength and individuality. She believes that society thrives on diversity and champions the notion that being different is something to be celebrated, not shunned.
Catrin’s remarkable journey has instilled immense pride in her parents, Carl and Sara. They admire her ability to turn adversity into a force for good, transforming a negative experience into a positive force that drives her to make a difference in the lives of others.
