Sydney man Brad Smith brought back to life after pool accident
A Sydney man died and was brought back to life by his mate after a horrific accident in a swimming pool during the statewide heatwave last week. His community has rallied around him to provide financial support for his ongoing recovery.
St George Shire Standard
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A Sydney man died and was brought back to life by his mate after a horrific accident in a swimming pool during the statewide heatwave last week.
The Sutherland Shire community has rallied around local plumber Brad Smith, who was enjoying a day off from work during Sydney’s heatwave on January 16 when he hit his head diving into a pool and snapped his C6 and C7 vertebrae.
Brad’s friends Daniel Smith and Terry Smith organised a fundraiser to support the Sutherland man during his ongoing recovery.
“He died and was brought back through CPR by his mate Johnny,” Terry Smith said.
“He’s got a long road ahead and his prognosis and recovery is still somewhat unclear, but due to age and fitness doctors are confident he will regain use of his hands and legs.”
Mr Smith said Brad’s recovery was already miraculous.
“He (has been) picking up a drink and standing on his feet,” Mr Smith said.
“It will probably be a good three to six months before he’s back to a decent level of health.”
Brad was in the middle of building a granny flat, which could be rented to take off some financial pressure while he is off from work during his recovery.
Christine O’Hea from Denis’ Carpentry and Leahanne Clark from Chase’n Hire both offered assistance with labour, excavation and equipment hire after Mr Smith’s fundraising appeal in a local Facebook group.
“We started a fundraiser as he’ll be off work for many months and it will help with getting the house ready for him to do some of his rehabilitation at home,” Mr Smith said.
“A bunch of mates did an awesome job of connecting the services and cleaning up the yard but now we just need the final touches so it can be rented at top dollar and help pay for Brad’s medical bills and recovery.”
Donations have almost hit $5000 in less than 24 hours and will contribute to a vanity and mirror, a deck and screening for the front of the granny flat, and Brad’s ongoing bills and medical needs.
Friends also offered words of support for Brad as he recovers in hospital.
“Looking forward to having some beers in your new back yard with you once you’re better,” Luke Soliatis wrote.
“You got this dude,” Mark Prentice wrote.
Brad’s partner Kerin Galton also thanked their friends and family for their support on social media.
“Our Braddy will make it through and is receiving the best treatment possible round the clock,” Ms Galton wrote.
“You have all been a massive support during our darkest days.”
Visit Brad’s fundraiser here to support his ongoing recovery.