A DONATION by a Steeton company has transformed the life of an amputee.

Dad-of-two Mark Toner lost his right leg earlier this year and was virtually confined to the ground floor of his home.

But after hearing of his plight, Acorn has supplied and installed a stairlift free of charge.

Now Mark, 36, has regained his independence and is able to provide more help to his wife Margaret and young daughters – including Faith, who was born seven weeks premature in April.

"I broke ten bones in my right leg and severely damaged my left in a fall at work," he said.

"After ongoing treatment, I finally made the difficult decision to have my right leg amputated.

"I was so limited with what I could do in the house and after Faith was born, I felt even more helpless – my wife would have to run up and down the stairs looking after all three of us. I knew something had to change."

Mark contacted Acorn Stairlifts to arrange a survey. But following the visit, he realised he couldn't afford the stairlift.

"We'd just had the baby and with so many new priorities and responsibilities, it was simply out of reach," he said.

"I just broke down."

However, on learning more about Mark's situation, Acorn decided to provide the stairlift for free.

"When we spoke in detail to Margaret we were all deeply moved by their story – no-one should feel trapped within their own home and unable to join in normal family life," said company secretary, Dave Belmont.

"We were pleased to be able to help ease a difficult situation."

Mark added: "I'm so appreciative of what Acorn Stairlifts has done for me – for all of us.

"I feel like I've got my freedom and my life back."