Johnny's Road to Recovery (Spinal Cord Injury)

SUMMARY OF ACCIDENT:

Words from Johnny's sweet fiancé Charlotte Gordon:

On Tuesday 18th June, life as we currently knew it changed in an instant. Johnny was in a surfing accident at his favourite Gold Coast surf break D Bar. On his first wave of the day, he didn't quite make the drop and hit a sand bank, fracturing his spine at T10 and dislocating his T11 which bent his spinal cord. He also sustained broken ribs and a slightly collapsed lung. He was rescued by a group of surfers, body boarders and lifeguards who we are eternally grateful for and thank you will truly never be enough.

He was treated by a team of paramedics, and airlifted by Westpac rescue helicopter to Brisbane to have surgery and begin what will be the biggest journey of our lives.

Johnny is currently experiencing paralysis from the waist down with no sensation, or movement. His spinal cord injury is what they deem severe and complete and we have been told it is very unlikely he will walk again. However, we remain incredibly positive and are going to throw everything we possibly can at this.

There really will never be the words for everyone that has supported us so far. We are so incredibly grateful - we have a long road ahead, but he’s alive, and day by day we are choosing to see what the body and mind are truly capable of.

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Johnny and Charlotte are known by everyone for giving everything, time and time again and are the last people to ever expect anything in return.

We have been inundated with messages from people asking how they can help and support so we have created this Go Fund Me to offer a slice of the love back to them that they so generously provide to all those who surround them. We will also use this as a platform to keep family / friends and community updated with his recovery.

There is a lot of uncertainty in the road ahead so absolutely anything that you are able to give is so deeply appreciated, even if its your thoughts and prayers ❤️ Unfortunately Johnny and Charlie have landed in limbo with funding in both Australia and New Zealand, not being eligible for normal pathways of support and what they need for this level of injury. Your donations will go towards equipment needs (wheelchairs, ramps, shower accessibility, ocean chairs, toileting necessities - catheters), weekly rehab, appropriate rental housing and modifications needed, mental and emotional support for Johnny.

Other forms of support outside of donating that would be so appreciated are:

If you are able to provide additional support or have ideas on ways in which you are able to help please reach out to Maddy Gordon via DM. Johnny is my brother in law and Charlotte is my older sister.

Maddy Gordon: insta: maddygord0n