WARNING, GRAPHIC CONTENT: An alleged it and run in Thailand left a British man requiring surgery to amputate both of his legs. Willie Braid is still recovering in a Bangkok hospital
A British expat lost both of his legs in an alleged hit and run in Thailand.
Willie Braid, 54, was involved in a crash with a lorry while he was riding a motorbike in the capital of Bangkok on July 27. The Scottish man was then rushed to hospital with life-changing injuries and the driver of the lorry is alleged to have fled the scene.
Following the crash and the injuries Willie sustained, he suffered kidney failure and was placed in an induced coma. Both of his legs had to be amputated below the knee and he still requires round the clock care in hospital. It comes after a schoolboy, 13, has both legs amputated after ‘getting cramp’ at sports camp.
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His sister June, who flew out to Thailand after she was informed of the crash, said Willie has come out of the coma but “doesn’t know where he is or what’s happened”. She explained he “recognises us, but he’s very confused”.
She told the Daily Record: “He’s come out of the coma but he doesn’t know where he is or what’s happened. He recognises us, but he’s very confused. We’ve got a psychiatrist working with him but he has no comprehension of his injuries or his amputations, he’s delirious.
“That could be caused by trauma or an infection. Thankfully, he is receiving exceptional care from the medics here, who are doing everything they can to get him better.”
Willie, who has lived in Thailand for five years, is also receiving kidney dialysis following the crash. It is expected that he could remain in hospital for at least three months.
June continued: “I’m not sure how long I’ll stay out here for. Right now, I’m taking everything day by day. Willie will have to stay in the trauma unit for the foreseeable future before he can be moved into rehabilitation. As it stands, he cannot fly, but thankfully he’s in the best hands possible.”
Willie will require lifetime support once he is discharged from hospital and will need to move into supported accommodation. June has now launched a fundraiser to help pay for his rehabilitation and medical bills.
She continued: “Willie’s road to recovery will be long and challenging. He will require 24/7 care in Bangkok, as he is unable to travel until his wounds heal.
“Once he is stable, he will undergo rehabilitation and be fitted for prosthetic legs, which will help him regain his independence. With that said, we’re seeking support during this difficult time.”
Nearly £5,000 has been raised since the fundraiser was launched earlier this month. Meanwhile, June and her family are receiving support from the British Embassy in Thailand to trace those responsible for the alleged hit and run and bring them to justice.
He added: “Right now, we’re receiving support from the embassy to find a lawyer who will take our case up with the police. Until then, we will be fundraising to get Willie better.”
Donate to the online fundraiser here.