Daniel meets real heroes
05 Nov 08
Headley Court heros inspire Hero singers
The X Factor single Hero will hold on to the number one spot - if enough people go out and buy it before Sunday.
Everyone here is hoping that the contestants can claim another week at the top - especially as we approach the all-important landmark of Remembrance Sunday.
If you haven't bought the single yet - go on! You really are contributing to a very good cause.
We spoke to contestant Daniel Evans about visiting the tri-services rehab centre where some of the servicemen most seriously injured go after they return from war zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan.
Many of the personnel at Headley Court will never recover fully. Instead they are taught to adapt to a new life with the restrictions of missing limbs, paralysis, nerve and brain damage.
Said Daniel; "I didn't know what to expect when I went to Headley Court. I thought we would be walking around hospital beds, and I thought it would be a sad thing".
"It turned out to be an inspirational day. I was bowled over by the courage and commitment and positivity of the people I met".
"I was talking a couple of brilliant boys, Ben and Steven. There was one guy who lost his lost his leg under the knee and he was like, "I'm going back to Afghan. I've got to help my mates".
"They were the nicest bunch of people I've met. We thought we'd lift them with the single, but in the end, they lifted us. I felt special and lucky to be inspired by them..."
"...But really, it is these guys who need the help".
You can help injured servicemen and women by contributing to the Help for Heroes and Royal British Legion Poppy Day Appeal.
Especially now that he's seen where the money raised from the sale of single Hero is going, Daniel is desperate to raise as much cash as possible.
He told us, "I would love to go back to the centre one day, in five years time, to see where the money has gone. I'd go back under my own steam - do you think they would let me? I'm proud to have been able to help".
Daniel said, "The feeling of achievement I have from being part of this single - an achievement that everyone who has bought the single is part of - is something that will go on to carry me through life".
I'd like to help by downloading Hero from iTunes
I'd like to help by downloading Hero from Play.com
I'd like to help by buying the CD from Amazon