The carpenter, who was celebrating completing his apprenticeship, suffered spinal injuries from leaping into a pool while Cameron Wales was on what was supposed to be “the trip of a lifetime” in Florence.
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Wales suffered injuries in a “terrible accident” diving into a small pool, according to his aunt Christine Russell.
He was taken in an ambulance from his hotel in Florence to the hospital, where he underwent urgent surgery.
Wales was diagnosed as a partial quadriplegic, unable to use his hands or move past his waist.
Parents of the 21-year-old have already traveled to Italy to be by his side while he is still in the intensive care unit.
The injury means the “easy-going, friendly 21-year-old is now facing the possibility of not being able to do what he loves most” — playing football at his local AFL club, cricket, and carrying on with his work as a carpenter, according to Russell.
“The plan was to travel for four weeks, then go to work and hopefully get some sort of carpentry job in the UK for the next 12 months,” she remarked.
It was horrifying, devastating, and very challenging because Cameron was on the other side of the globe.
“I feel really distant from Italy.
I am aware of how far Cameron still has to go.
Despite everything, according to sister Lucy Wales, her brother was happy.
According to her, “I’m sure he’s still managing to put a smile on people’s faces over in Florence,” she told.
There is a lot we don’t know, but there are a few things we do: Cam is very strong, and he will be the one to survive.
Wales’ unexpected tragedy has generated an outpouring of support from AFL professionals as he is a devoted Demons supporter and the brother of two AFLW players.
Demon Jake Lever added, “I know it would be a tough time right now, but we are all praying for you, mate.”
Christian Petracca, another teammate, sent his regards and wished him luck in the battle, saying: “Want to wish you the best with the fight, friend, and hopefully, we get the win for you this week. , Dees.
Russell initiated a fundraising campaign to assist Wales’ family with medical costs, and in just two days, more than $210,000 was raised.
“Cameron is a strong and determined young man, and with the love of his mates and family they will inspire him to embark on the arduous and long journey ahead of him,” she wrote in the GoFundMe.
“First, to go back to Australia, then to maximize his recovery.”
Rochelle Brown is present.
