Just so awful

I feel so sad for our country and by all accounts a very decent woman, who happens to be an independent politician. Dr Helen Haines, member for the federal northern Victorian electorate of Indi, was attacked by a driver in 4WD not once but twice or more, mashing her legs between the front of his large vehicle and her own. It is horrific to try to even imagine what that would be like for the victim. 

The alleged culprit was initially apprehended by a local businessman, then along with others until police arrived to arrest him. It may turn out to be a terrible mental episode. Umpteen authorities are investigating and the law will prevail in due course.  

I have never heard such respectful words about any politician from all political directions than I have today about Dr Haines. I am not a believer in bagging politicians because they are politicians. There are some very honourable people in politics, of course with some not so honourable. 

I am not sure about other countries, but aside from perhaps the Prime Minister and high profile politicians who have a security detail, generally our politicians can get about freely in the community without threat, and I hope this doesn't stop that and we give in to the haters.

Helen is in a serious but stable condition, no doubt being treated the best doctors in Australia. With such trauma, she will initially be treated as a public hospital patient at no cost. She was flown by helicopter to Melbourne's Alfred Hospital and has had one leg amputated as the surgeons try to save her other leg. As she recovers, she can choose rehabilitation between public or private care.

This will be life changing for Helen, and if you wonder what it is like to suddenly become an amputee, you could hear, read and listen to what my acquaintance James O'Brien in Sydney has to say about it, along with his interviews with amputees, in his Limb Shift writings and interviews.

Good luck Helen. You need it.