Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Just one punch caused a living nightmare for us
Victim’s bid to stop further attacks
A MAN who was seriously injured following a one-punch attack in Australia has told how he is lucky to be alive.
Michael Hyndman, 23, from Belfast, was placed in an induced coma by doctors following an altercation in Sydney on New Year’s Eve.
He is urging people to think again before getting involved in such incidents.
Mr Hyndman underwent emergency surgery on New Year’s Day and required 47 stitches to his head.
He had moved to Sydney last September with his fiancee Clar to begin a new job as a quantity surveyor.
Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, Mr Hyndman said: “It was just one punch that caused us to be catapulted into this living nightmare and I hope that on sharing my story I can prevent even one person from throwing that punch in the future.
“However, I do want to say that this incident has put an indefinite hold on life as I/we knew it. It certainly was not part of our planned new adventure in Australia.”
Mr Hyndman went on to explain what happened on the night of the incident.
He said: “It was a completely unprovoked attack and my injuries were the result of just one punch.
“I feel it is important that people fully understand the consequences of throwing just one punch, as in this case it is this one punch that almost cost me my life.
“This nightmare has put my family’s, my fiancee’s and even close friends’ lives on hold and held me back for too long already. My fighting, determination and motivation has no doubt helped me make a phenomenal recovery and now with the surgery behind me, it’s time I try my best to overcome this.
“Living this nightmare is a daily reminder to me that, each moment on this earth is not guaranteed and is indeed very precious and fragile.”
Mr Hyndman revealed he was readmitted into hospital on March 9 to put the bone back into his skull.
He said: “I’m awaiting clearance to fly and I’m hoping to return to the Emerald Isle to see my family and friends who I left behind. I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to the friends that I have not been in contact with. “I have read every message/post and have been truly overwhelmed by the tremendous support given to me and my family at this difficult time.
“I want to say a massive thank you to everyone. You have supported me and my family, not only financially but emotionally and I am so thankful for that, and forever grateful.” A Gofundme page set up by Mr Hyndman’s brother Barry had hoped to raise £3,000 but almost £18,000 was donated.