A young boy from Perth, Joshua Schuetz, is back on the football field after a life-threatening quad bike accident during a family holiday in Bali. The eight-year-old, who has spent seven months recovering from severe injuries, recently expressed his excitement about returning to play, confidently stating he hopes to “score a hat-trick” in his first game back.
Joshua’s accident occurred last November while the family was enjoying time together, including snorkelling and fishing. Tragically, the quad bike he was riding with his brother flipped, leaving Joshua trapped underwater beneath the heavy vehicle. His brother, Lucas, acted quickly to try and free him, all while their father, Holger, was powerless to intervene just a few metres away.
Upon being pulled from the water, Joshua showed no signs of life. “When I saw him in the van, I thought, ‘He’s gone’,” his father recalled, describing the harrowing moment when he saw Joshua unresponsive. He was rushed to hospital in Denpasar for emergency surgery, placed in an induced coma, and ultimately medevac’d to Perth for further treatment.
In the months that followed, Joshua underwent multiple operations and intensive rehabilitation, showing remarkable resilience throughout his recovery. His mother, Anna, noted how surreal the entire experience felt for the family, reflecting on the ordeal they faced together.
Nurse Kylie Tefler praised Joshua’s tenacity and determination, qualities that have undoubtedly played a crucial role in his recovery. While he faced serious injuries, it’s believed that wearing a helmet during the accident significantly contributed to his survival.
A report highlights that a concerning statistic exists regarding quad bike accidents involving children, with nearly 60% resulting in emergency room visits, often without proper head protection. Fortunately, both Schuetz brothers were wearing helmets during the incident.
As Joshua prepares to return to the sport he loves, the family’s experience stands as a sobering reminder about the importance of safety precautions, particularly in recreational activities. Joshua’s journey of recovery serves as an inspiring tale of hope and resilience for both his family and the community.