Last week we shared a story about a super Inspirational Adelady, Jess Caire, who stepped out of her comfort zone and signed up for Kokoda to raise money for Interplast. Read her story here.
But we come with sad news today. Thinking of Jess, her beautiful little family and also her trekking partner Sal who is continuing the trek without her!
We cannot possibly imagine what she’s going through right now. Hayley x
From Jess:
On Wednesday May 25 my Kokoda trek was cut short when somewhere between Hoi and Isurava, the ground gave way beneath me and I fell 25m down a steep cliff.
Thankfully, I was able to hang onto some vines and pull myself upright. Within moments the porters were down to the bottom of the ridge, assessed my injuries and carried me to the top.
From there they stretchered me for 25 minutes through steep terrain and over creek crossings. I am so grateful to be alive, and more grateful to my brave porter Nou Vilos who risked his own life to save mine.
I was medevac’d out of Isurava village on Thursday morning. Thankfully, I have only sustained injuries to my legs.
Sally has bravely continued on to finish for the two of us and I can’t wait to give her the biggest hug when she gets home.
Saying goodbye to Sal on Thursday morning was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I was so grateful to have her there throughout this ordeal. She’s not only a kick ass friend but also a kick ass nurse. I have no doubt her continuing without me was a very difficult time for her as well.
I’m home, and in considerable amounts of pain, and it seems my bed will be my home for the foreseeable future after being checked over by the Mater hospital in Brisbane. Both my legs have received multiple tendon and muscle damage, as well as torn hamstrings and my left knee has ligament damage. I’m grateful my injuries aren’t considerably worse or my fate worse.
I’m still coming to terms with the emotional and mental anguish of this ordeal, I suspect that may take a little longer to heal.
I’m so grateful to my family & friends, in particular my husband and Dad for sorting out my insurance company, staying calm under considerable pressure and getting me out of PNG as soon as possible.
Touching, smelling and seeing my babies smile this morning is one of the most treasured moments in my life.
Jess x
Jess Caire is a mother of two, wife, insomniac, business owner and a proud South Australian. If you would like to know more about Jess’ Kokoda Trek or her life, head over to her FACEBOOK or visit turiaskokodatrek.gofundraise.com.au. If you would like to know more about Interplast Australia & New Zealand, head on over HERE.
