Ben seeks industry support before DIY SOS filming
Automotive industry charity Ben is asking for the sector to support a family who are set to be filmed on DIY SOS in July.
Ben is appealing for volunteers and donations to help bring a family’s 13‑year‑old son, Dan Flemen, home.
Dan, who was an active and sociable teenager, started experiencing flu-like symptoms in November 2022. His life was irrevocably changed when his symptoms worsened, he became dizzy and was rushed to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. There, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Following emergency surgery, he suffered a stroke and now faces severe disabilities; he is non-verbal, can’t sit unaided, needs night-time ventilation support and requires 24‑hour care.
Hospitalised
Since his diagnosis he has been unable to return home, remaining hospitalised for over two and a half years as his family struggles with the day-to-day reality of living apart. Dan’s mother, Julie, has been living in hospital accommodation to be by his side, while his father, Nigel, who works for APL vehicle services, and two sisters travel over 50 miles from Freckleton, Lancashire to be with them.
The family home is not currently wheelchair-friendly and doesn’t have the space to accommodate Dan’s complex needs. To bring Dan back home, they need a private, accessible bedroom, an adapted bathroom, facilities for full-time care, and social space to reconnect with family and friends.
The renovation costs are far beyond the family’s means. The family will appear on the BBC’s DIY SOS series later this year, but contributions and volunteers are still vital.
- DIY SOS invites general volunteers for decorating, but also skilled electricians, plumbers, decorators, joiners, and suppliers of materials to support the team from 16-23 July. Please email [email protected]
- Every donation brings Dan closer to a home that meets his needs.
Asking for help
Nigel Flemen, Dan’s dad, said: “Our little family has always been very close, and the thought that Dan may never be able to come home is something we can’t consider or think about, it’s too devastating. That’s why we are asking for help. Dan needs to come home, where he belongs, with all of his family. We feel this would aid his recovery, mental health and quality of life.
“We are reaching out for help because we believe in the power of community. With your support, we can transform our home into a place where Dan can be surrounded by the love and care he needs and deserves. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to bringing Dan home.”
