George (Jiri) Dlouhy Rehab - Falling Tree Accident

On Wednesday February 15, 2023, our father, grandfather, husband, and friend - George (Jiri) Dlouhy - suffered an unimaginable accident. While standing in line, waiting to begin his ski day at Boler Mountain, without warning, a 30-40ft pine tree fell on top of him. George was rushed by ambulance to LHSC-Victoria Hospital where the staff performed acute intervention, emergency surgery, and ultimately saved his life. The family is forever grateful to the staff at LHSC for saving George’s life. He currently remains in hospital, and is receiving treatment on the inpatient trauma unit for several injuries, including; intra cerebral hemorrhage, proximal humerus fracture, pelvic fracture with severe urologic injury, and several fractured ribs. We are so thankful that George was wearing his helmet at the time this dead tree unexpectedly fell on him while standing in line at Boler Mountain.

George recently retired from his career as a mechanical engineer. He had visions of a retirement full of outdoor activities, with skiing being his primary passion. George is an avid skier and for years he has held a seasons pass at Boler Mountain. Unfortunately his ski season was cut short. We know George has a long recovery ahead of him after this catastrophic accident. His prognosis remains uncertain at this time. We are hopeful that in time he will be able to return to skiing and resume ski coaching his beloved grandchildren.

Unfortunately, with his extensive injuries, George will require further inpatient rehabilitation when he is medically stable. When he is able to return to his home that he spent years renovating with his own two hands, significant modifications may be necessary in order to support his recovery. George will also need ongoing occupational and physical therapy. We know George will be able to handle the physical burden of this recovery, but we are especially devastated that this tragedy occurred just as he began his retirement. George humbly worked for years to get to this day, where he could pick up at a moment’s notice and hit the slopes.

The medical expenses for in-home rehabilitation will be entirely out of the family’s own pockets. All donated funds will go towards George’s extensive rehabilitation bills and any home modifications required.

Thank you.

Below are some photos from the accident.

We hope George will be back to skiing in the mountains when he recovers.