A REPORT into a Hereford doctor’s heartfelt plea for help to return to the career he loved has brought a glimmer of hope for the former A&E medic.

Dr Stephen Sadler, noted for his dedication to the job he always wanted to do, was 34 and completing his training to become a GP when he was driven by mental illness to make two suicide attempts.

He lost a leg and an arm as a result of jumping in front of a train, the nature of the amputations ruling out the use of NHS prosthetics.

As a result of a Hereford Times report into his plight, a private Hampshire company, Limb Solutions, has responded with an offer to see whether its prosthetics would be suitable for Dr Sadler.

“I am encouraged by this,” said Dr Sadler. “Getting the prosthetic limbs would make a huge difference to me.”

Both amputations of his leg and arm have proved to be “too high” for fitting NHS limbs.

Only private companies can supply the advanced equipment necessary, but a prosthetic arm is likely to cost £88,000 and £50,000 for a leg.

His brother, Paul said he was “ecstatic” at Limb Solutions’ offer to make a free evaluation of Dr Sadler’s circumstances, though the family realise they will have to step up their fundraising.

“We need people to make this story viral, by sharing links and helping us get more people involved," he said.

The family has so far raised £1,000 and will top that total through a cabaret night in London.

“There is so far to go, but we won’t give up,” said Paul.

“The West End performers are willing to give up a night to help raise some much needed money.”

He added: “Steve is desperate to get on with his life, but he is held back as he needs these specialist prosthetics.

“We need to get the limbs soon, before the nerves and mobility of his remaining stumps deteriorates.

“You couldn’t have met a more caring and amazing doctor and guy. I want to help my brother so much, I just can’t do it alone.”

· Donations can be sent to: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/user/paul-sadler/dashboard/prothetic-limbs-for-stephen-sadler-bdd-sufferer/