A 13-year-old boy is on the road to recovery after a terrifying accident on March 29 that could have claimed his life.
Jacob Vesovic was cycling through Wellington Point when he collided with a car, suffering multiple fractures and serious injuries.
The impact was so severe that emergency surgery was required to stabilise him.
Thankfully, his helmet, which Jacob always wears thanks to his mother’s repeated reminders, saved his life.
Jacob, an avid cyclist, had been out on a regular ride when the accident occurred.
While he had always taken the safety measure of wearing a helmet, the accident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly danger can strike.
Jacob was rushed to Queensland Children’s Hospital where he underwent a lengthy emergency surgery on the night of the accident.
Surgeons worked through the night to repair the damage, and after an agonising wait, Jacob awoke the following day.
Although the immediate threat to his life has passed, Jacob faces an extensive recovery process.
He will need multiple surgeries and long-term rehabilitation, including physical therapy to regain the ability to walk.
Medical experts have placed metal rods in his legs to aid the healing process, and Jacob is expected to remain in the hospital for many weeks.
His family, including his mother Karen, father Andre, and younger sister Jaz, have been with him every step of the way, but the emotional and financial toll is significant.
With mounting medical bills and everyday expenses, the Vesovic family have found themselves facing an unexpected financial burden.
In response, friends and community members have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the ongoing costs of Jacob’s treatment and provide much-needed relief to his family during this difficult time.
The goal is to alleviate some of the pressure, allowing Jacob’s family to focus on his recovery without the added strain of financial worries.
The GoFundMe page has already garnered significant support from residents and well-wishers, with donations pouring in to assist Jacob and his family.
As of Monday, the campaign has raised $1607, but organisers hope to raise $4000 to help cover Jacob’s care in the months ahead.
The Vesovic family is overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support they’ve received so far.
As Jacob begins the long process of rehabilitation, his family is urging others to prioritise safety, especially when cycling.
“The road is unpredictable, other vehicles are unpredictable, and cyclists might not see a car coming from behind a parked car or a driveway if it is a blind spot and going fast,” his mother Karen said.
“Anything can happen in a second.
“There are so many ebikes and scooters and they are fast.
“Please keep them safe and know you did everything you could to keep them safe once they ride away.
“You do not want to get that phone call to say your child has been hit by a car.”
For those who wish to support Jacob’s recovery, the GoFundMe campaign is still open by searching “Help Jacob and his family through his long recovery”.
