Sydney couple return to Townsville to thank ICU team who saved husband's life

Nearly three years after a fall left him fighting for his life, Sydney man Denis Savill has returned to Townsville University Hospital (TUH) with wife Anne to thank the intensive care unit (ICU) staff who cared for him.

Denis fell down a steep staircase while on holiday in Port Douglas on 1 August 2023 and was taken to Mossman Hospital before being transferred to Cairns Hospital as his condition deteriorated.

In the early hours of 2 August, Denis was airlifted to TUH with brain trauma and was rushed into surgery before being placed into an induced coma, spending 10 days in TUH's ICU.

Anne, who knew no one in Townsville, said she refused to leave her husband's side during one of the most frightening periods of her life.

"Denis was not doing well, and I didn't want to leave his side although I knew no one here and was navigating a completely new city," Mrs Savill said.

"I can't tell you the care and kindness that was shown to Denis and myself.

“Nothing was ever any trouble to any single person in that ICU ward."

Denis was later transferred home to Sydney, where he began rehabilitation at St Vincent's Hospital in September 2023.

Anne said surgeons who performed his brain shunt surgery told the family he would likely achieve a 65 per cent recovery, with 75 per cent considered a miracle outcome.

"Denis has reached 98 per cent recovery and now, at the age of 85, he goes to the gym three days a week and has walked hundreds of kilometres since returning home," Anne said.

Denis has no memory of his time in Townsville but said returning to say thank you would bring him and Anne huge comfort.

"I'm looking forward to the chance to say how much I appreciate every single bit of kindness and care that Anne was shown while I was in the ward," Mr Savill said.

"I've said to people that I think this event is the most remarkable thing and gives wonderful closure not only to us, but to staff who may not always know what happens after patients
leave the hospital."