Diane Dernie

Diane Dernie is a tireless campaigner for disabled veterans' rights and a full-time carer to her son, Lance Bombardier Ben Parkinson. They live in Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Diane's life changed in an instant on 12th September 2006, when her son Ben was severely injured by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan. Ben is almost certainly the most seriously injured serviceman to have survived his injuries, although he has severe brain damage and a catalogue of long term injuries, including a broken back and the loss of both his legs.

Ben will need round the clock care for the rest of his life, but was awarded just £152,150 in compensation by the Ministry of Defence, in accordance with the rates set by the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. This scheme, which was introduced with the aim of fast-tracking compensation to injured service personnel, awards the maximum payment of £285,000 only to those who have lost all their limbs. Ben was offered compensation only for his three most serious injuries (to his legs, brain and arm), meaning that the other 34 wounds he suffered would not count.

Given that civilians injured in violent crime can be awarded up to £500,000, Diane set up a fighting fund and carried out a successful legal challenge against the MoD on behalf of Ben.

Diane said: "Having someone you love serving in the armed forces is always a worry in times of war, but nothing can prepare you for the emotional and physical stress of coping with a severe injury. The entire family is affected from the youngest to the oldest, and it often seems that there is nowhere to turn."

Diane is a fantastic role model to the many family members whose lives change overnight when their loved ones need their care, and we are thrilled to welcome her to The Forgotten Heroes.