A powerful new storyline on ITV's Coronation Street is shining a vital light on the life-altering impact of spinal cord injuries, with guidance from real-life survivors and medical experts to ensure its authenticity.
From Drama to Reality: Expert Guidance on The Street
The plot sees mechanic Tyrone Dobbs, played by actor Alan Halsall, sustain a serious spinal cord injury after a hit-and-run incident. The drama initially threatened him with paralysis from the waist down. This has led his on-screen wife, Fiz Stape, portrayed by Jenny McAlpine, to step into the role of his primary carer, placing immense strain on their relationship.
The programme's researchers have worked closely with the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) to portray the experience accurately. Key advisors include Martin Hibbert, the vice president of the SIA and a survivor of the Manchester Arena bombing, who was left paralysed, and his wife, Gabby. The couple provided the production team with a married couple's perspective on the sudden, profound changes such an injury brings.
Highlighting the "Hidden" Struggle of Incomplete Injuries
While the storyline represents those who use wheelchairs after complete injuries, it also crucially highlights individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries. These people may regain the ability to walk but continue to live with often invisible consequences.
Specialist nurse Carol Adcock, who has been advising the ITV team, explained the critical detail. "Just because someone recovers motor function in their legs does not mean they have full recovery of the nerves that control their bladder, bowel and sexual functioning," she said. "This group may look like they are not disabled but still experience incontinence and sexual dysfunction."
Alan Halsall emphasised this point, noting, "The thing with a spinal injury is they’re different for every single person." Many in this situation report feeling "not disabled enough" to receive understanding or support from those around them, including family and healthcare professionals.
The Unseen Burden on Carers and Families
The narrative powerfully explores how a spinal injury changes entire families, not just the individual. Jenny McAlpine reflected on the value of meeting Martin and Gabby Hibbert. "For Fiz, trying to juggle family life and caring for Tyrone is really difficult," she said. "It was invaluable for us to hear Gabby’s side of their story. Their lives changed in an instant in so many ways."
This partnership between a major television show and real-world experts provides a unique platform to raise public awareness. As Carol Adcock stated, "Not everyone is aware how spinal cord injury can impact a person physically, psychologically, in their relationships and everyday life. Coronation Street is a unique and perfect platform to raise much-needed awareness."
