Denzel sustained multiple fractures to several of the cervical vertebrae in his neck, as well as massive bleeding and trauma to the spinal cord, while playing with his kids during a holiday in Kimberley, South Africa in January 2010. Denzel was initially cared for in a Bloemfontein hospital for nearly two months. After initially leaving the intensive care unit, he had to return for a week as he had blood clots in his lungs.
Whilst in South Africa Denzel regained some movement in his neck and began to be able to lift his arms off his bed. Denzel was able to attend a third birthday party for Nicholas which was held in a nearby park. Denzel had an amazing time, celebrating with his wonderful family, friends and his two nurses!
Towards the end of February 2010, Denzel, Karen, Nicholas and Grace returned to Sydney to begin to rebuild their lives. Denzel was transferred to Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) ICU and then moved to the spinal unit. Training hard in the gym, he was focused on one goal... to be able to walk again and play with his children, Nicholas and Grace.
On March 5, 2010, Denzel moved to the rehabilitation centre in Ryde. He is continuing to receive intensive therapy and training with the focus on getting home so that the family can be together again. After the initial move to the rehabilitation centre Denzel had to be readmitted to RNSH with an infection, which meant a delay in the progression of his therapy treatment.
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