On 3 February 2009 Andy Grant's life changed for ever.
Grant was on foot patrol in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device (IED) was detonated, inflicting serious injury on the then 20-year-old Royal Marine.
The Liverpool fan suffered 27 separate injuries in the blast. As well as recovering from his wounds, Grant found returning to civilian life a struggle, physically and psychologically. He eventually had to have his leg amputated.
But with the help of the Royal British Legion, Grant has been able to find a new lease of life.
Now the 29-year-old is the fastest single-leg amputee in the world over 10km. One of his heroes, Robbie Fowler, calls Grant "an absolute inspiration".
"I didn't just want to talk the talk, I wanted to walk the walk; spread my message about hopefully being positive," Grant told the former Liverpool striker, when the two met ahead of Remembrance Day.
The support the Royal British Legion does for members of the Armed Forces is aided by funds raised from auctions of signed Premier League club shirts carrying the poppy.
"When you've been in the military or you're still serving, it's great to see," Grant said.
"You say, 'Actually, what we’re doing does matter to people. People do care. People do remember the sacrifice that's going on around the world'.
"And it's a nice feeling to know that people are supporting the Royal British Legion.
"There are so many projects that they are running, that all need funding. Every penny that's raised is going to a great cause because there are so many veterans out there who do need help transitioning to civilian life."
To bid for a signed Premier League shirt, go to the Premier League's Poppy page.
