Top End unites for major Tai fundraiser
THE Darwin community has once again rallied in support of injured Darwin Buffaloes forward Tai Martin-Page.
AFLNT and the Darwin Buffaloes Football Club hosted a Help Tai Walk Again Fundraiser yesterday evening at the Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre.
Attendees at the fundraiser looked on as Martin-Page’s team took on Wanderers at Marrara Stadium, just over a month after Martin-Page’s sickening on-field collision on the very same ground and against the same opponent.
Martin-Page suffered a dislocated vertebrae in two places and a damaged spinal cord after a collision with Wanderers player Mitchell Taylor on January 6.
While the final prognosis is still unknown, the injury has left Martin-Page facing a long stint in rehab and with the possibility of not being able to walk again
After being flown to the Royal Perth Hospital to undergo emergency surgery, Martin-Page, 27, was last week flown to Adelaide where he is looking forward to beginning his rehab at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre.
A Gofundme campaign has also garnered support from around the nation and has so far raised over $106,000 in 29 days.
Created by his brother’s partner, the campaign has received donations from 744 people so far — with contributions still coming in.
Last night’s event tickets were $99, with all proceeds going to Martin-Page and his family.
Guests at the fundraiser were able to bid on or buy raffle tickets for exclusive auction items.