A Woman Who Survived a Fire with 96% Body Burns Boldly Rocks Swimsuits and Embraces Her Scars

At just 19 years old, Catrin Pugh was busy planning her future. However, in April 2013, her life changed drastically when the bus she was traveling on after a vacation in the French Alps crashed. She sustained burns over 96% of her body, and doctors gave her only a 1% chance of survival.

She almost didn’t have any chance to survive.

Catrin Pugh, born and raised in North Wales, UK, was a typical teenager with a love for travel and adventure. In April 2013, on a bright spring day in the French Alps, she was heading back to Britain after the ski season had ended. At 19, she boarded a coach on a route known for its steep descent and 21 challenging hairpin bends. As they approached the 20th bend, Catrin’s sense of calm was abruptly broken when she overheard the driver quietly say, “I’ve got no brakes!” The words were quickly followed by a panicked shout.

Catrin (on the right) in 2012.

“You could feel the coach freewheeling, soaring,” says Catrin. “There was screaming and shouting, people breaking windows, some managed to jump off.” Catrin immediately thought about her parents. “I’m really sorry, Mum and Dad.”

“I could see the drop in front of us and then the driver turned the wheel in time — which is why we’re still here,” says Catrin. However, they collided with the rocks on the opposite side of the bend. Maurice Wrightson, the driver and the sole fatality among the 52 people aboard, was later posthumously awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery in recognition of his actions.

She underwent more than 200 surgeries.

Pugh was trapped in the burning bus, suffering severe burns to her face, arms, legs, and torso. She was airlifted to a hospital in Grenoble, France, where doctors gave her only a 1% chance of survival. The only areas untouched by the flames were the soles of her feet and a few patches on her scalp.

Treating Catrin’s injuries proved to be an extraordinary challenge. With no skin left to protect her from infection, she required immediate and multiple skin grafts. Normally, this procedure involves taking skin from other areas of the body, but due to the extent of her burns, Catrin’s condition was too severe. Skin was taken from her scalp, allowed to heal, and then harvested again—requiring a total of five procedures. Additionally, skin from the legs of her brother and mother was used, leading to both of them being hospitalized for two weeks each.

Despite the odds, Pugh persevered. She endured more than 200 surgeries and countless hours of painful rehabilitation. Slowly but steadily, she began to recover. Today, she proudly identifies as a burn survivor and is deeply committed to supporting others who have gone through similar trauma.

“My main goal is to show people that you can have a life after such trauma and such traumatic injury and life can be fulfilling and positive and whatever you want it to be,” declared Pugh.

She never lost hope and turned her dreams into reality.

Since her accident, Pugh has achieved more than many could ever imagine. She became a physiotherapist and motivational speaker, traveling the world to share her story and inspire others to overcome adversity and reach their goals.

Additionally, she has become a strong advocate for burn survivors, partnering with charities and organizations to raise awareness about the physical and emotional challenges faced by those who have endured burns. Her efforts have improved countless lives, and her message of hope has resonated with millions.

In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Pugh has received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Helen Rollason Award for Inspiration at the 2019 BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards.

She has also become the face of the beauty brand Avon and has modeled at London Fashion Week, as well as for a charity that supports individuals who “look different.”

Catrin Pugh’s extraordinary journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite enduring unimaginable challenges, she refused to give up, finding the strength to overcome her injuries and create a new life for herself.

While her path has had its ups and downs, she has never lost her will to persevere. As she puts it, “I’d like to think people would look at me and see that the future looks bright, but I don’t think it’s as simple as that.”

Stories of such resilient individuals inspire us to cherish what nature has given us. Here is another brave woman who survived a deadly fire and embraced her new self, supported by her husband’s unwavering love, who stood by her throughout the harrowing ordeal.