Indi MP Helen Haines Stable After Losing Both Legs
Haines is recovering from a double amputation following a car strike in Wangaratta, while her staff prepare to reopen her electorate office next week.
By Aiko Soto ·
Helen Haines, the independent member for Indi, is now in a serious but stable condition, according to The Alfred hospital in Melbourne. Her status was upgraded from critical but stable earlier this week.
The change in condition was announced by a hospital spokesperson on Saturday morning. Haines was struck by a car in Wangaratta on Monday afternoon. Surgeons attempted to save her right leg, but the severity of the injuries required amputations of both legs.
Brendan Nugent, 43, of Tarrawingee, was charged by police on Tuesday. The charges include dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, and the commonwealth offence of causing harm to a public official. Court documents indicate he was later charged with cultivating and possessing cannabis. Nugent appeared at Wangaratta magistrates court on Wednesday and did not apply for bail.
Phil Haines, Haines's husband, visited the hospital on Wednesday. He described his wife as having a huge heart and the sharpest intellect. He stated that both her heart and her mind are in good shape.
Haines's staff issued a social media update on Friday regarding the future of her political operations. They expressed hope to reopen her electorate offices next Thursday. The staff noted that many team members witnessed the incident and were among the first to provide aid.
A community vigil took place in Wodonga on Wednesday evening. Cathy McGowan, Haines's predecessor in the seat, attended the event. McGowan described the community as dealing with mixed emotions.
More than $730,000 has been raised for Save the Children in Haines's honour. Her husband encouraged donations to the charity's special appeal while she recovers.
