A walking miracle: hit and run survivor defies expectations
AHIT and run survivor who was left for dead in the gutter has defied doctors’ expectations by learning to walk again.
Michael Davies, from Sandwell, was told he would never feed himself or walk again after he was hit by a car in October 2009.
He was left fighting for his life and suffered severe brain injuries in the crash on West Bromwich High Street.
The former George Salter Academy pupil had to be fed through a tube until 2016 and now lives in a specialist Voyage care home.
But the 31-year-old strides with his recovery.
He recently walked into his local pub with his carers to order some lunch for the first time in almost a decade.
“It’s been an absolute miracle,” said his mother, Margaret. “We call him ‘Miracle Michael’. He has come along in leaps and bounds with his recov- is making ery. We cannot wait to find a suitable bungalow for him to move into with his care team.”
Doctors were doubtful that Mr Davies would ever recover after six frustrating years with little change. But in early 2016 his condition began to improve and he was eventually able to have his feeding tubes removed.
Soon he was using his wheelchair and then taking his first steps.
Now his carers hope to take him swimming and horse riding as he continues to improve.
“Michael’s life and the lives of the whole family changed forever on the night of the crash,” said his mother.
“We didn’t know whether he would survive or not.
“I can’t thank Voyage enough for what they have done for Michael. The entire team are such lovely and caring people.”
After the tragedy his family instructed lawyers at Irwin Mitchell, who secured him a significant settlement from insurers to help his rehabilitation support.
The settlement, which will help cover the costs of recovery throughout his lifetime, is now being managed by Irwin Mitchell’s Court of Protection team.
Rachael Adams, solicitor at Irwin Mitchell, said: “To see someone come back from a brain injury like Michael’s is nothing short of inspirational and proof that there can be life after serious injury.
“We are really looking forward to seeing Michael take to the swimming pool and are proud to support him as he looks to move into a speciallyadapted property with support.”
It’s been an absolute miracle... He has come along in leaps and bounds with his recovery Mother Margaret