VIDEO: Injured rugby league player Ryan Glynn is back on his feet

And just eight weeks later Ryan is back on his feet – after battling through two major operations and a stroke. The 25-year-old is now walking with the aid of crutch, and is improving every day.

Ryan’s dad Mick said: “I knew from day one that he would walk again. I know his head – he’s determined.”

The former Dewsbury Rams player suffered a serious spinal injury while playing for Shaw Cross Sharks in March. After undergoing two operations at a specialist unit in Sheffield, things were looking up for Ryan.

But days later he suffered a stroke in the night. He woke up unable to move much of his body. “When I saw his face struggling – trying to move – we didn’t know what was going to happen,” said Mick, 45.

It was a major setback, but Ryan was determined not to be beaten. “I was asking for more physio before I was out of bed. But I wasn’t allowed so had weights brought to me in bed.”

Ryan was able to move one of his legs after a few days and can now clinch his fist and even wiggle a little finger.

And despite being given a wheelchair, he has barely used it since he arrived home last week. “I never get down about it,” he said. “I just get on with making a recovery.”

Ryan paid tribute to the support of his family. “I wouldn’t be back at home without them. It’s going to be hard knowing that I can’t play rugby again. But my health comes first and I have other opportunities ,like coaching.”

Rugby league players will step into the ring for a boxing event in aid of the Ryan Glynn Fund. The Battle in Batley takes place on June 16 at the Frontier. Call Mick Turner on 07973359548.