Crowdfund campaign launched for injured teacher

A Busselton man, who could be left quadriplegic after a car accident caused by a storm in July, is determined to regain his independence and, with the help of friends, is crowdfunding to purchase a customised wheelchair-accessible vehicle.

After the accident John Filipiak, commonly known in the community as Flippa, underwent spinal surgery at Royal Perth Hospital and months of rehabilitation at Fiona Stanley Hospital before transferring to Shenton Park Quadriplegic Centre.

The St Mary MacKillop College teacher’s homecoming is scheduled for March or April next year, but will depend on major alterations to his home.

Friend and colleague Geraldine Gamble has set up a GoFundMe page to help fund a customised vehicle to accommodate Mr Fillipiak’s wheelchair.

Ms Gamble said the vehicle, which costs about $100,000, would help Mr Filipiak get to appointments and enjoy social activities.

She said Flippa had earned a reputation in the community as a man who could not say no to the needs of others, often helping with gardening, mowing lawns, collecting and supplying wood to those less fortunate.

To donate, search Wheels For John on GoFundMe or leave a donation at Geographe Saws and Mowers, Laundry 43, Busselton Senior Citizens Centre or Mark Trovato Chartered Accountants.