Bryony Gray is diving deep to raise money for LifeFlight with a 5km swimming fundraiser on the Sunshine Coast.
One year ago, her husband Aaron was severely injured in a motorcycle accident on the Old Bruce Highway near Pomona.
The LifeFlight Sunshine Coast-based aeromedical crew airlifted him 135km to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) in an induced coma.
The 61-year-old spent 10 weeks in hospital with extensive injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and around 30 fractures.
Mrs Gray said her husband’s recovery had astounded the RBWH neurosurgery team.
“Given the severity of his injuries, they couldn’t believe he was already sitting up and talking a few days after his admission,” she said.
“He was in full protective gear during the incident. The fact that helped was the new gear I had bought him for his birthday. He had a new helmet on, and if he was wearing his old one during the accident, he might not have made it.”
Now Mrs Gray is taking the plunge in an attempt to swim 5km at the Nambour Aquatic Centre.
“I only started swimming as an adult and have never swum that far before,” she said.
“I was talking to my swim coach about it and thought I’d give it a go.
“I wanted to do something to raise some money for LifeFlight after them being there for Aaron last year.
“He has an extensive collection of scars, and it could so easily have been a different outcome.”
Mr Gray has defied the odds and is back on his feet working part-time with continued physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
“I’m deeply grateful to LifeFlight for the speed, skill, and care they brought to my rescue,” he said.
“Their response gave me the best possible chance of surviving a critical situation, and I’ll always appreciate what they did for me and my family. Thank you to everyone who supports this incredible service.”
