Zac’s Comeback Journey

Zac is facing the biggest challenge of his life after a freak accident that resulted in a broken neck and serious spinal cord injuries.

While playing in the waves on a family holiday, Zac broke his neck and was immediately paralysed from neck down. Thankfully, friends and family were able to get him safely to shore. Zac shattered his C5 vertebrae, with severe damage to C4 and C6 and significant spinal cord injury. He has spent a over a week in ICU & now is in a spinal unit. He has slowly regained sensation in his arms, with movement returning in his right arm.

Zac is the partner to our beautiful friend Laura, a much-loved uncle, cheeky brother, loving son, and incredible friend to many. He is a cherished member of the Warkworth community, making a lasting impact through his work and sport. The outpouring of support shows just how deeply he is valued.

Zac loves golf, squash, fishing, and living an active, social life surrounded by friends and family. This injury is the greatest hurdle he has ever faced, and the road to recovery for Zac and family will be long and challenging.

Many of you have asked how you can help. Due to the nature of this injury, it’s hard to know what is needed. While Zac and Laura feel hesitant about donations, the goal is to help Zac access specialised care to support the best possible recovery, this is what has led us to create this page for those wanting to help.

ACC will be providing some financial support but this will not cover everything.

Zac and Laura are deeply grateful for all the support the community has shown 💙