Nurse back on the road

Two years ago today, our lives changed forever. As a registered nurse, I had just accepted my dream job—traveling across Australia to provide healthcare to rural and remote communities. My partner Jaidon and I were heading on holiday to celebrate this exciting new chapter when tragedy struck.

We were involved in a horrific car crash and remained trapped inside our vehicle for over 90 minutes while emergency services worked tirelessly to free us with the jaws of life. I was airlifted to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane with severe spinal injuries requiring emergency surgery. Placed on life support, I spent nearly two weeks in a medically induced coma.

Our lives were suddenly uprooted with no choice but to relocate to Brisbane—far away from all our family, friends, and the support network we had built. In an instant, we found ourselves isolated in an unfamiliar city, navigating the most challenging time of our lives without the nearby comfort of loved ones.

Through it all, Jaidon never left my side, despite suffering a serious shoulder injury and developing PTSD from the accident. At the time of the crash, he was just about to begin his enrolled nursing studies—a shared passion that brought us together. Instead of starting his education, he devoted himself entirely to my recovery, sitting by my hospital bed day after day, reading to me, and becoming my greatest advocate and source of strength.

When I finally regained consciousness, my world had been shattered. I learned the devastating extent of my injuries: 10 fractures in my spine and a spinal cord injury that left me quadriplegic. The paralysis affected even my ability to cough or sneeze, leading to additional complications. For three months, I wore a halo brace screwed into my skull to keep my neck in traction while it healed. Multiple surgeries followed to prepare for long-term management of my condition.

After almost 10 months in hospital, I was discharged to disability accommodation in Brisbane. I fell into a profound depression, feeling completely worthless and requiring around-the-clock care. As time passed, I withdrew more and more, avoiding family and friends, not wanting to be seen.

Seven months after the accident, in a beautiful testament to his unwavering love and commitment, Jaidon asked me to marry him. His proposal reminded me that even in our darkest moments, love and hope can shine through.

Despite everything, I've been overwhelmed by the support we've received. What hurts most is losing the career I worked so hard for—my passion for nursing and caring for others is what gives my life meaning. Recently, I've been exploring options to return to nursing in some capacity, to reclaim that sense of purpose.

I've been fortunate to receive funding for essential equipment and care, but to regain my independence and potentially return to work, I need a modified vehicle. While my funding body will assist with the installation of necessary modifications, the program requires a vehicle less than five years old to qualify.

Today, we're asking for your help to raise funds for this vehicle—not just a car, but a pathway back to independence and my calling as a nurse. Your support would mean the world to us and help get this nurse back on the road, serving communities that need care, while also supporting Jaidon and me as we build our future together.

Thank you for considering our story, Stacie & Jaidon