Macca sends note of hope
Sir Paul McCartney has sent a message of support to a fan who lost both legs in the Staten Island ferry disaster after learning that the injured man was named after him.
The former Beatle and his wife Heather were touched by the plight of Paul Esposito, whose life was saved by a British nurse in the horrific crash in New York last week.
He wrote the note when he discovered that Esposito's mother, Audrey-Jo, had named her son after her favourite Beatle.
It read: "Heather and I were so sorry to hear about your accident but we know that you and others involved in this tragedy will be strong and will recover fully.
"We're sure you will keep your spirits up. Heather and I know you will lead a full and active life, and we both send you our love."
The 24-year-old waiter survived the disaster with the aid of Swansea nurse Kerry Griffiths. She saved his life by tying a belt around his legs to stem the bleeding.
Sir Paul learned of his namesake from the New York Daily News, and Esposito told the paper that receiving the former Beatle's message of hope was "awesome".
"I'm surprised Paul McCartney had time to take out of his life to show concern for my case. I'm touched that a big celebrity would make time for me," he said.
His mother said: "Something like that, it makes a big difference. He's a kind man.
"Please tell Paul McCartney thank you... I'm so glad I named him after Paul McCartney."
Mrs Esposito also paid tribute to Ms Griffiths, saying: "I have such a love for her, a bond."
Ten people died and more than 40 were injured in the disaster, many of them losing limbs.
Lady Mills McCartney, who lost her left leg in a motorcycle accident in 1993 and has since campaigned for the provision of artificial limbs, is working to help the victims.
The charity campaigner said many victims' relatives had contacted her for help in the days after the tragedy.
She said: "We continue to receive heartfelt e-mails and phone calls from relatives and friends of the people injured in this way and are making ourselves fully available to speak to them at any time.
"We hope they will be fitted with the best possible prosthetic limbs as soon as it is appropriate so they can continue to lead rich and fulfilling lives."
