- A football player is in an induced coma
- Michael Pisker suffered the injury last weekend.
- His family will have to share devastating news when he wakes up.
A Melbourne footballer is in an induced coma after suffering serious injuries during a match last weekend.
Michael Pisker’s head collided with the legs of an opposition player as he ran backwards with the ball during St Kevin’s Old Boys Football Club’s clash with Melbourne University in the VAFA on Saturday 20 July.
The match was stopped and he was treated by the club’s medical staff before paramedics arrived at the scene.
Footage of the incident was initially seen on the league’s website but has since been removed due to its graphic nature.
The football community has rallied to help the 26-year-old, with a massive $120,000 raised through a GoFundMe page to help pay for Pisker’s medical bills and living expenses during his recovery.
You can donate to the fundraiser. HERE.
Pisker’s mother, Alexandra, revealed the extent of her son’s injuries, saying he suffered “two head traumas.”
“Michael is 26 years old and is widely regarded as one of the most talented footballers in the competition,” the page says.
St Kevin’s Old Boys defender Michael Pisker is in an induced coma following a collision
‘Michael is a kind and loyal friend to everyone, both on and off the pitch. His powerful left foot, his fierce determination to win the ball and his fearless play define him.
‘Michael is currently in an induced coma in the intensive care unit at The Alfred Hospital. The medical team have provided Michael with the most incredible care, compassion, professionalism, expertise and love.’
She added that the family will have to give Pisker the devastating news that he will not be able to see out of his right eye when he wakes up.
“Michael faces significant challenges ahead with multiple surgeries to reconstruct and control the resulting damage to his head and eye,” the fundraising page continued.
Sadly, it has now been confirmed that Michael will not regain vision in his right eye.
‘We are still assessing how much surgery and rehabilitation will be necessary. We expect it to be significant. It is also anticipated that Michael will need to take considerable time off from work as he is entering an intensive period of rehabilitation.
“Michael is much loved by his family and friends, and they decided to start this fundraiser to help cover future costs. We have been deeply touched by the outpouring of support and concern for Michael’s situation.”
The SKOBFC chairman thanked club doctor Kim Whelan and head coach Maddy McCavana for looking after Pisker when he initially suffered the knock.
“The medical team did an incredible job until the paramedics arrived,” Patrick Mount said.
‘We have a long road to recovery ahead of us and the club and family sincerely appreciate the well-wishes and support from VAFA Headquarters, the referees, University Blues, other VAFA clubs and the wider SKOBFC community.
‘Michael is one of the club’s most popular, talented and brave players and we are fully committed to helping him in his recovery and rehabilitation. Our thoughts are with Michael, his mother Alexandra, his sister Maria and his girlfriend Sasha at this time.
‘We ask that the family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time.’