Sam high-fives return

A smiling Sam Ford shows his love of birds on a holiday to New Guinea in 2008. The Cabarita teenager is semi-responsive in hospital, five months after he was knocked unconscious during a fight in Coolangatta. Photo: Supplied

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News in pictures - March 2010

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A CHEEKY laugh and slow high-fives are miraculous signs to family and friends that their beloved Sam Ford is coming home to them.

Slowly but surely the 18-year-old Cabarita surfer continues his recovery in the Gold Coast Hospital, five months after receiving brain injuries during an assault in Coolangatta.

Sam’s mother Margaret said they had seen daily improvements in his recovery since he started swallowing pureed food three weeks ago.

“He’s still not talking, but he’s moving his head a little bit and moving his right side a little.

“His right side was where he had his stroke, and previously he wasn’t moving it at all.”

Sam has more energy and has been able to lift his hand above his head.

“His mates came in the other night and he gave them a high-five,” Mrs Ford said.

“It’s very, very slow, but it is more than some expected him to do five months ago.

“And he’s laughing when his mates are there; it’s just unbelievable.”

Mrs Ford said Sam had just started his long road to recovery.

“It’s five months now and he’s still not walking or talking, but he’s starting his slow progress to recovery.

“He’s going to be in hospital for two years,” she said.

“I just can’t wait till he says his first words.”

Mrs Ford and her husband Michael took Sam on his first outing last week.

“We went upstairs, back to intensive care where he spent 38 days fighting for his life and the 7C neuro ward where he spent two months fighting so hard to stay alive,” she said.

“We took him back there to introduce Sam to the nurses and doctors that saved his life; such dedicated people.

“It was very emotional for all of us.”

Community members have organised a fundraising day for Sam on March 20 at Cabarita, starting at 8am.

Mrs Ford said the family had been overwhelmed by the Tweed Coast community’s support.

“It makes me cry when I hear the things people are doing.

“It’s just unbelievable how kind every one is; not just donating money, but their time also. It’s absolutely amazing.

“Thank-you to his girlfriend Meghan and all his friends for their never-ending visits; that is what is bringing Sam back to us.”