Miln Family - Love and Support Fund

On the early morning of December 15 2022, Dave with his young daughters, Isla (3) and Anna (1) had a traumatic life changing interaction with a Mechanical Road Snow Blower whilst on their way to ski lessons.

Dave’s actions ultimately saved the lives of the girls, keeping Anna under his body and doing his best with Isla. However, Isla still entered the machine. Clare was able to make split second decisions that saved her family's lives before being transported with the girls to hospital. Due to the extent of his injuries, Dave spent over an hour in the machine until rescuers were able to free him, and relocate to hospital, remaining conscious the whole time.

Dave is now a double amputee; above the knee of the left and below the knee on the right, as well as breaking both femurs, pelvis, a number of his lower vertebrae, a sacral and finally 3 ribs. He underwent 10 different surgeries in three weeks and still has many more surgeries expected. Many will be happy to know Dave still maintains his dark sense of humor and razor-sharp wit!

Isla has suffered breaks in both of her legs and her pelvis, as well as other wounds, and had 3 surgeries and may require more. She is expected to make a full physical recovery (though a long process for an active toddler).

Dave has been medically transferred to Sydney, Australia but is still admitted in hospital. Clare, Isla and Anna are now back in Sydney where Isla is attending medical appointments several times a week. Together they will begin the long rehabilitation process both physically and mentally.

This life changing incident means the Miln's ‘California Dream’ has come to an early end.

During this time Clare and Dave have shown strength and resilience beyond comprehension. The family has banded together with positive determination for the future. Many of us have been shaken by this news and searching for a way to support the Milns during this unthinkable time.

There are MANY financial costs (some still unknown) involved for the Miln family to re-establish themselves in Sydney and for all the necessities Dave and the family will now need. These may include things like vehicle modifications for Dave, household equipment and modification and other bits and pieces that Dave will need in adapting to his disability. Please understand that anything we can collect isn’t towards medical costs, they are covered by Defence, but Defence is unable to directly fund all the bits and pieces we take for granted in daily life, many of which aren’t going to be compatible with Dave’s condition. All the funds raised will go directly to The Miln’s, in helping the family adapt to those new challenges.

While Dave learns to run again (and we all know he will!) please donate generously so their strength and energy is focused purely on healing together.

Please share on social media, with family and friends as we work together to lighten the burden on this incredible family, as they come to grips and learn to adapt with the challenges ahead. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!