IT TAKES more than a leg amputation to dampen the high spirits of the Schalwyk family.
Andrew Schallwyk, 35, is lucky to be alive after being involved in a devastating dirt bike accident in New Beith on November 3, resulting in a dislocated knee, shattered femur and broken left shoulder.
More than three-and-a-half months on from the tragedy, family friend Kendra Ross said the Schallwyk family are still going strong.
Mr Schallwyk is a father to two boys, Liam and Byron and is in a loving relationship with his partner, Shaye Mcquitty.
“Their support network has kept them going and they are hard workers and good genuine people who would do anything for anyone,” she said,
“They haven’t put on a pity party, not once.”
Mr Schallwyk is now on the road to recovery, having moved on from the orthopedic ward and into rehabilitation.
“He is starting to get up and they have him walking with an inflatable airbag under his stump. He is going well and is in high spirits,” Ms Ross said.
Overwhelming community support has flowed through to the family with a GoFundMe Page already raising more than $20,000.
The money will be used to install some minor house modifications and ongoing costs, including the limb prosthetic which is understood to cost $120,000 and is expected to last six years at a time.
There will also be a ‘Going out on a limb or Andy’ fundraising event at 720 Middle Road at Greenbank on February 10 starting at 4pm and running till late.
There will be an array of family friendly fun, including a jumping castle, petting zoo, face painting, live music, raffles and auctions.
Ms Ross said the Schallwyk family couldn’t be more grateful for the community help they have already received.
“Andy is overwhelmed by it all, he said surely there are other people out there that are worse off,” she said.
Anyone looking to contribute to the fundraiser can contact Kendra Ross on 0450 901 412.
Contributions are still welcome for ‘Andy’s Road to Recovery’ GoFundMe Page.