AFL icon Modra leaves hospital after near-fatal crash
Tony Modra has confirmed he has left hospital after his near-fatal cattle truck crash, again thanking the AFL community for their ongoing support.
The former Adelaide Crows star was under doctors’ supervision for injuries suffered after a tree fell onto his car while driving in Back Valley in June.
Adelaide great Tony Modra is out of hospital after his truck crash. AFL Photos
Now, the 57-year-old will continue his long road of recovery at home with his family in South Australia.
“Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve been overwhelmed by the kindness and care shown to me and my family,” Modra said in a statement.
“I have left hospital to continue my recovery at home and only now starting to wrap my head around the incredible amount of support and well wishes.
“I remain deeply grateful to the members of the public who gave me vital first aid until professional help arrived, to others who offered reassurance, and to the emergency responders, medical staff and specialists who have cared for me.
“My progress has been encouraging and we kindly ask that our privacy continues to be respected as we focus on my rehabilitation. Thank you.”
The 57-year-old’s family described the crash as “a freak accident” and confirmed that Modra underwent two surgeries after being admitted to hospital.
Modra’s wife Erica was on the phone with him when his truck collided with the tree branch, with her son Luke using the Find my iPhone app to help direct emergency services to his location.
He spoke for the first time in late-June and revealed his plan to watch the June 27 showdown between Port Adelaide and the Crows from his hospital bed.
The AFL icon’s former club went down 13.19(97) to 11.5(71) against the Power.
“G’day everybody. I am really looking forward to watching (Saturday’s) showdown,” he said in an audio message.
“I’ve heard I’ve had a lot of support, not just by Crows fans but Port fans as well. I would just like to thank everybody. I hope everybody has a great night.
“I am looking forward to the friendly banter and the two teams putting on a great show for South Australia.”
He concluded his first message since the accident with a road safety message to the fans, players and team staffers who travelled to Adelaide Oval.
“Enjoy the game and make sure you drive home safe,” he said.
