By JODIE SYMONDS
A FERNTREE GULLY couple is holding a fund-raiser following a workplace injury that left Rhys Knight unable to work.
With no guarantee that doctors could save his leg, Mr Knight made a life-changing decision to have his lower left leg amputated.
Their nightmare began on 6 April when a tree landed on Mr Knight’s leg crushing his ankle, muscles and damaging an artery.
“I was around a metre off being killed and I couldn’t imagine leaving my family behind,” Mr Knight said.
With a 16-month child and a new baby on the way, his partner Dian Brunt said when she first heard about the accident she felt overwhelmed.
“Not only am I a mother, and expecting baby number two, I am also a full-time care person to my beloved partner,” Ms Brunt said.
“I felt worried and shocked; it really didn’t kick in until I rang my mum and couldn’t help but cry.
“It’s true what they say – you never really know who is there until something tragic happens and you’re left with nothing.”
Going through close to 20 surgeries since the lopping accident, the healing process still isn’t complete for Rhys as there will be more surgery to make the prosthesis process safer.
The benefit to help with their financial difficulties will be held on 10 August at Belgrave South Oval.
There will be many attractions including a silent auction, face painting, car display, live bands and a raffle to raise funds.
“Not having the usual constant income coming through made us skyrocket into debt,” Ms Brunt said.
“If it weren’t for everybody we’d be homeless and in an even worse situation.”
To donate please visit https://www.facebook.com/events/239705662904712/.
