There has been a positive update in Michael Pisker’s recovery from injury

The local footballer who was placed in an induced coma after a horrific accident has made a positive step towards recovery.

The local footballer who suffered horrific facial injuries has woken up and been able to recognise his loved ones, his mother says.

Michael Pisker’s mother, Alexandra, updated the GoFundMe set up for Michael with the positive news.

“It has been almost three weeks since Michael was rushed to the Alfred Hospital. Thank you, everyone for your positive wishes and prayers. Michael has heard them and on Saturday he opened his eye,” she wrote.

“On Sunday the medical team removed the breathing tube and reduced his sedation, and he woke up and was able to recognise his loved ones.

“Michael has been able to speak to us but in a limited capacity. We are ecstatic.

“He has remained in the ICU until this morning when he was transferred to the neurology ward at the Alfred Hospital. His fighting spirit and courage is strong.

“We are waiting for further updates and assessment from the neurology team.

“We would like to again acknowledge the incredible work of the medical team at the Alfred Hospital and thank all those who have generously contributed to the GoFundMe campaign.”

The GoFundMe set up in Michael’s name has raised close to $300,000.

You can still show your support to Michael HERE

Michael Pisker.

LAST WEEK

The family of a Melbourne footballer who suffered horrific facial injuries last week say they have no timeline around when he will wake from an induced coma.

Michael Pisker’s mother said doctors could not yet give a full understanding of the extent of his injuries and will not be able to until he wakes up.

Michael suffered his horrific injuries while playing for St Kevin’s Old Boy’s (SKOB) in the Victorian Amateur Football Association almost a fortnight ago.

He walked off the ground after a collision in a marking contest but was placed in an induced coma and has lost vision in his right eye.

Michael’s mother Alexandra, partner Sasha and sister Maria have been at his bedside at the Alfred Hospital every day since.

“I think it’s more confrontational and shocking to see your son hurting,” Alexandra said.

“The update is that he’s still in an induced coma and we wait day-by-day.

“I wish there was (a timeline) but there’s no timeline.

“You can’t forecast (damage) until he’s conscious.”

Michael Pisker

A GoFundMe has been set up for Michael and has raised over a quarter of a million dollars including three singular contributions of $10,000 and one of $8000.

Alexandra said the community’s support behind her “loyal, kind, beautiful boy” had been “huge”.

“SKOB has been amazing, friends, family, people from the past … it’s just been amazing,” she said.

“If anyone can take a moment to read the story and find it within their heart to be generous, anything would be appreciated.

“We have never been in this position, we’re a pretty private and small family so this is very unusual for us.”

According to Alexandra, the bravery in which Michael ran back with the flight for the ball is second nature to him.

“He’s played footy since he was five, we came from Sydney and AFL wasn’t on the radar,” she said.

“(He played) Auskick for years, started at Prahran Junior Football Club … that boy always had a football in his hands.

“He played for St Kevin’s, Prahran Assumption, SKOB – he loves the club and they love him.

“The bravery for his teammates is there every day – in every way – from on field, to helping off the field, he’s there.”

Pisker runs away with the ball last year. Picture: Andy Brownbill

St Kevin’s president Pat Mount thinks the whole footy community has rallied behind Michael as the incident “could have easily happened to anyone”.

“I have been absolutely astounded by the genuine care and support from other clubs, not just in the VAFA Premier division but across the board,” he said.

“I think the whole footy community has rallied behind him because it could’ve happened to anyone, at any time – I think that’s what’s rattled a lot of the current players.

“This could have easily happened to anyone running around on a weekend.”

VAFA CEO Jason Reddick was proud but not surprised by the competition’s willingness to support Michael and his family.

“I am super proud to see how the Amatuer network does support our colleagues in times of need,” he said.

“Just the same, I am not surprised by it.

“The spirit and this support is ingrained in our clubs and has been for a really long time.”

You can support Michael Pisker and his family by donating HERE.