Tim’s Story
Just before Christmas 2023, I was in a farm fire, sustaining 38% full-thickness, full-circumference burns. Fortunately, our workman, Noel, was nearby and acted quickly.
What happened?
Just before Christmas 2023, I was caught in a fire on our farm that resulted in 38% full-thickness, full-circumference burns to my arms, legs, and hands. Fortunately, our workman, Noel, was nearby and acted quickly. Having previously been treated at Fiona Stanley Hospital for burns, he knew exactly what to do. He immediately called 000, pinning our location, and set the RAC chopper in motion.
Noel used our outside shower to cool the burns with water and had a firefighter hose in the ute for the short drive back to our house. Within minutes, three ambulances, including our local volunteer neighbours, were on the scene, providing assistance. The RAC chopper landed near our house within an hour of the injury. Critical care paramedics arrived to administer medication, reassure everyone, and prepare me for transport.
I was transferred by trolley from the shower to the chopper, which flew me directly to Fiona Stanley Hospital. The paramedics’ expertise and efficiency ensured I arrived at the Burns Service within 2.5 hours of the fire. Their quick response, coupled with Noel’s knowledge and support, made a critical difference in my care and recovery.
Treatment and recovery journey
I spent 10 days in the ICU followed by 74 days in the Burns Ward at Fiona Stanley Hospital. To date, I have undergone 11 surgeries, with more planned for my hands. Recovery has been incredibly challenging, but being surrounded by the incredible staff in the ward gave me confidence to face each day. Their expertise and care have been instrumental in my progress, and I cannot thank them enough.
I have also contributed to research by providing pathology samples and have benefited from advanced treatments, including Spray-on-Skin™ and laser therapy. These innovations have significantly impacted my recovery. Knowing that advancements made by Professor Fiona Wood and her team likely saved my legs is deeply humbling.
Life now
I have returned to the farm and regained much of my independence, though I still require assistance with dressing and scar management. My goal is to get back to playing bowls, my favourite pastime, but my hands are not yet ready for competitive play. My local bowling club has been a tremendous source of support for both me and my wife Sally, who has been my primary carer throughout this journey.
My wife Sally first connected with the Fiona Wood Foundation while I was in hospital. Searching for answers and guidance, she turned to the Foundation and received incredible support, particularly from Di. This connection has been invaluable to us both, and we are deeply grateful.
The Fiona Wood Foundation continues to inspire us with its energy and innovation. Visiting the paediatric burns ward and meeting other patients and burns families has deepened our appreciation for the Foundation’s impact, not only in saving lives but also in transforming them.
