‘Nothing short of extraordinary': Pilot Glenn Collins gives update after horror Avalon Airshow crash
Glenn Collins, a pilot from the Paul Bennet Airshows, was performing a four-plane stunt with the SkyAces Formation Aerobics Team at the event between Geelong and Melbourne on March 28 when his plane, the Pitts Special, crashed in front of a crowd.
Mr Collins, the sole occupant of the plane, suffered critical injuries to his upper and lower body as a result of the crash, and underwent several surgeries.
Giving an update on his condition five weeks after the horror crash, the pilot said it was a 'great comfort' to be closer to home and his family after being transferred from Melbourne to Sydney.
'Recovery is ongoing and still uncertain in many ways, though I'm thankful for every step forward,' he wrote online.
The pilot said while most of his 'general' injuries were healing well, he had also suffered spinal damage.
'I've been lucky to be in the care of amazing medical teams in both (Melbourne and Sydney). Their skill, compassion, and dedication have been nothing short of extraordinary,' he said.
'While I can move my legs – which I'm incredibly grateful for – I don't yet have full feeling in my legs or waist,' he said,
'Ongoing rehabilitation will be key, and I'm giving it my all.'
Mr Collins thanked his wife, family and the medical professionals who aided in his recovery, as well as those at the Avalon Airshow who 'acted so quickly and bravely to get me out of the wreckage'.
'This road I'm on is one many have travelled before – waking up to a new reality after life-changing injuries,' he said.
'While my future is still uncertain, I remain hopeful and grounded in gratitude, surrounded by care and love.'
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