The family of a young Rockingham boy are hoping he’ll prove doctors wrong by walking and talking again after a devastating bus accident earlier this month.
Phoenix Heazlewood was walking home from school with his siblings on May 8 when he walked in front of a bus and was hit by a car crossing Wilmott Drive in Cooloongup.
The seven-year-old was rushed to Perth Children’s Hospital with multiple fractures throughout his body, and had surgeries to stop internal bleeding, and part of his skull removed to reduce pressure.
Phoenix was placed in a coma to help his survival chances but an MRI revealed there was extensive damage to his brain.
Phoenix’s aunty Ashley said the family were told there’s a chance he might never walk, talk or eat independently again.
“But Phoenix has his age and fitness on his side and may prove us wrong,” she said.
“Numerous times since the accident we were told to prepare to say goodbye… In true fighting spirit Phoenix has started proving everyone wrong.
“On Monday, Phoenix showed signs of independently breathing.
“The doctors removed his breathing tube and as of today he is breathing by himself. We can only hope Phoenix continues to prove us wrong.”
On behalf of the family, Ashley also thanked the driver and his passenger who helped her nephew.
“They were going about their business and wouldn’t have imagined their world was about to be turned upside down,” she added.
“We hope they are receiving the love and support they need.”
The family will be making a submission to Main Roads to have a 40km/h speed limit extended the length of Willmott Drive.
Ashley also urged others to wait until the bus leaves before crossing the road and for drivers to be cautious while overtaking buses.
Ashley said Phoenix, who is a keen Hawthorn fan, may remain at PCH for more than a year.
Phoenix’s parents Emily and Shane Baron have remained by his side since the accident, which has put significant financial pressure on the single income family.
“This is going to be a long road for Phoenix and his family,” Ashley said.
“Phoenix will be at PCH until he is well enough to come home… This may take a year or longer.
“We will not know the full extent of his traumatic brain injury for years.
“I have set up a GoFundMe to assist our family.
“Any donation no matter how big or small or sharing the page would make a huge difference for the family.”
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