Story
On Saturday 4th January 2020, within 60 seconds of coming onto the rugby pitch, Worcester Warriors Michael Fatialofa sustained a life-changing spinal cord injury from a tackle gone wrong.
Michael was rushed off the pitch by paramedics to an Intensive Care Unit in a London hospital, but was immediately paralysed from the neck down.
His condition still remains serious as his injuries leave him facing damaged function, feeling and control over his body. However, Michael is making progress following successful surgery to contain the swelling and compression in his spinal column. The reality of spinal trauma is a future marked with uncertainty, but Michael is prepared for an outstretched road to recovery.
Michael is a resilient, positive and strong person and player loved immensely by his wife, family, teammates and friends. A go-getter by nature, he is determined to defy the many odds stacked against him by focusing his energy on rehab, which he hopes to start as soon as possible.
This campaign will raise funds to support Michael and his family with his needs throughout this testing time. With the ongoing uncertainty over Michaels prognosis, length of rehabilitation and future career/work prospects, donations will help cover immediate necessities as well as future finances, costs and unforeseen expenses of Michael and his family.
Restart, the official charity of the Rugby Players Association, will be managing Michael's JustGiving Campaign Page. All funds donated and raised for Michael via this fundraising page will go directly to supporting Michael and his family only.
"As a family, we appreciate any help people are willing to give at this difficult time. It is very humbling and well outside of our comfort zone to reach out and ask for support in this way. We would love to thank everyone in advance, and feel so overwhelmed already by the generosity, prayers and kindness Michael & I have been shown. Together, we can all ensure he has the best chance of regaining independence and living a fulfilling life again." Tatiana, Michael's wife