Dead lucky

By Lia Bichel
AFTER twice being declared dead in April, a Berwick man said his life was the best gift he could have received this year.
Robert Bailey turns 23 today (Thursday), but is lucky he can celebrate it after falling 25 feet from a balcony head first onto concrete on 10 April.
The tragic incident occurred only three years after he moved with his mother from England to Australia to be with his sister.
“I don’t remember a single thing. I had post traumatic amnesia for three weeks after the accident,” he said.
“I was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital and died twice on the way. I am lucky to be alive.”
Mr Bailey had the left side of his scalp removed and had to wear a padded helmet for five months.
He also stayed at the Royal Talbot Rehabilitation for four weeks, but continues to go undergo regular rehabilitation sessions.
This week, he and his family had a party to thank everyone who supported him during the difficult time.
“My boss that I was working for (at the Mexican House in Berwick) held a night in Lava Lounge after the accident and everyone donated money which went towards my medical expenses and the cost of the ambulance. It really helped me out,” he said.
“It is my birthday, but for me, the party was about saying thankyou to everyone who helped me out including my housemate John who looked after me, people from Mexican House, Lava Lounge, EightyOne, the police and Alex Scott. I am extremely thankful for their help.”
Mr Bailey’s sister, Jennifer Bailey-Tuck said she was also thankful for the support he received.
“We were amazed at how strong the community was and how they pulled together to help, and we all want to say thankyou,” she said.
“We weren’t sure whether Robert would pull through or be okay after the fall, so it means the world to me that he is alive and can celebrate his 23rd birthday and Christmas this year. I think we will be spending it reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the next.”