Essendon have rallied around their former AFL player Jason Winderlich after the sobering extent of his injuries were revealed nearly two weeks after he suffered a broken neck in a game of local footy.
The 39-year-old playing coach was airlifted to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne following an incident while playing for Thorpdale in the Mid Gippsland Football Netball League on August 4.
Surgery to insert a plate was successful but he is still facing significant rehabilitation after sustaining spinal damage, according to an Essendon-backed fundraiser for the Winderlich family.
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“As part of his injury, he has sustained damage to the spinal cord which has now led to complications with a long road to recovery ahead,” Andrew Welsh wrote on the GoFundMe.
“We know his determination and love for his family will drive his recovery process, however Jason’s main concern is that Katie, Sierra and Ava are supported through this very difficult period.
“Jason is currently receiving treatment at the Alfred hospital whilst he waits to be transferred to a rehab facility.
“Ongoing medical costs and adjustments at home and his workplace will need to be made to allow the family to navigate through the next stage of their lives.
“If you can help the family in any small way to assist in this traumatic time, it will go a long way to ensure the best recovery is achievable for Jason in the months and years ahead.”
The Bombers donated $10,000 to the fundraiser after already offering support to the Winderlich family in the immediate aftermath.
“The club extends its deep wishes and thoughts to Jason and his family,” Essendon president David Barham said in a statement on August 5.
“The club has been in regular contact with the Winderlich’s to support and assist Jason in any way possible.
“Jason has always been a valued member of the Essendon family, and we are committed to providing him with all the support he needs during this challenging time.
“Our thoughts remain with him and his family as they navigate this difficult period.”
Winderlich played 129 games for the Bombers after being drafted from the Gippsland Power.
“Just wanted to give a shoutout to Jason Winderlich, Katie Winderlich and the Winderlich family,” his former AFL teammate Jobe Watson said on Channel 7’s coverage of an Essendon game the day after the incident.
“Thoughts with him and his family and hoping for a good recovery for him.
“A great Essendon person and we are thinking of him, the Bombers family certainly wishing him the best.”
Winderlich played junior footy at Thorpdale and had always planned on returning to his childhood club at the end of his career, making his comeback last season.
The game between Thorpdale and Toora was abandoned in the second quarter when Winderlich copped a knock to the head after gathering the ball.
An ambulance was called immediately, but the decision was eventually made to have the 39-year-old flown directly to Melbourne.
“As we stand together in this challenging moment, we send our heartfelt wishes to Jason and his loved ones,” Thorpdale said after the incident.
“May his recovery be swift and complete, and may his strength and resilience continue to inspire us all.
“We are grateful for the tireless efforts of those who provided assistance both on and off the field, demonstrating the unwavering unity that defines our club.”
Thorpdale had a bye last weekend and are due to return to the field this Saturday for a home game against Morwell East.
