Well known Port Macquarie surf life saver Tony Wright says he is ‘surprised’ and ‘amazed’ by the level of support from the community.
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Tony was critically injured when he was knocked from his bike during a routine training ride on Ocean Drive just north of Lake Cathie on March 4.
He was training to compete in an Ironman event.
Fundraising – including a gofundme page organised by Melinda Cockshutt – sprung up with the Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club offering its auditorium for many of the events.
With his family – wife Leanne and two children – by his side, Tony has continued to astound his doctor’s with his efforts during the recuperation and rehabilitation phases.
And, he says, there are so many people to thank.
“After four weeks in ICU and six weeks in the trauma ward at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, I was transferred to the Rankin Park Centre in mid-May,” Tony said.
“I do about one to two hours of rehab each day.
“Last Friday I actually went for my first hydrotherapy workout in the pool. I don’t think I’ll be doing laps.
“The local support is surprising and amazing and I am – we are, as a family – so grateful.”
In further good news, Tony says he hopes to get back home in the very near future.
“I hope to be transferring to Port Macquarie Private Hospital’s rehabilitation unit in one or two months.
“I’ve met with the team via video conference call and I look forward to working with them.
“I am looking forward to coming home.”
Tony also praised the care team at Rankin Park rehab who ‘have been great’.
“My progress is beyond all our expectations,” he said.