Playing for the Windang Sharks in the Illawarra 3rd Division in 1990, Michael Russell was involved in a freak on-field accident, which caused a brain clot – unbeknown to Michael. Despite the knock, Michael returned to play the following week but the front rower was involved in another serious collision. This second incident caused the clot to bleed and resulted in subsequent brain damage.
Michael was aged only 21 and had just finished his building apprenticeship. But his promising future was tragically halted that day.
The brain damage has left Michael unable to walk short distances without quad sticks or long distances without a wheelchair. Michael also suffered partial blindness and has no short term memory.
He is an avid St George-Illawarra fan who attends all home games and absolutely loves it. But if you ask him who his favourite Dragons players are, he’ll tell you straight away, Rod Reddy and Michael O’Connor. Michael supported St George before the accident.
Michael has always loved his Rugby League, ever since his days as a Warilla junior. He is still very proud of the team’s achievements in the under 16s and 18s where they went through the season undefeated.
Since the accident, Michael has been cared for and supported by his mother, Margaret Whyman. Michael receives a disability support pension but this is not enough for Margaret to cover his costs of living which is continuing to mount given the expenses for medication, medical equipment and home modifications.
The Men of League Foundation has been able to assist with this shortfall to ease the burden on Michael’s mother.