Surgeons amazed by burn victim's 'rapid healing'
Life took a bad turn for a young Stewart Island man after he was engulfed by flames from a petrol accident on May 17.
Reuben Holt, 18, was airlifted from Stewart Island to Christchurch Hospital to receive treatment for the severe burns to his face, arms and chest.
A post from his parents on a crowdfunding page said their son had undergone several extensive surgeries, including skin grafts to his right arm and hands.
Mr Holt had been supported in Christchurch by his family,
The family, who returned home to Stewart Island last month, were now taking time to "get some good sleep in their own beds and deal with their exhaustion".
"It has been an overwhelming and turbulent time for the family — but we are all doing OK.
"Reuben's progress has been quite mind-blowing.
"All the surgeons, consultants, nurses and therapists have been completely amazed by his rapid healing.
"He has maintained his wonderful sense of humour and kindness throughout it all which I'm sure has helped his steady way forward."
The road to recovery was far from over, with further surgeries and intensive physiotherapy required.
A Givealittle page created by one of the island's 400 residents had raised $13,047 to support the family with travel, accommodation and other costs associated to Reuben's recovery and ongoing rehabilitation.
The page has now closed.
— APL
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