Community & Business
15 December, 2023
Community rallies behind Dylan
THE Herberton community is rallying behind local businessman Dylan Ahern, who suffered a life-threatening seizure after falling and hitting his head in November, rupturing a brain aneurysm.
Dylan was quickly transported to Townsville where they found the aneurysm. An emergency brain surgery was performed to alleviate pressure, followed by another procedure, where two coils were inserted into the ruptured aneurysm to stop the bleeding.
Sadly, two additional aneurysms were discovered two days later, leading to an extended stay in the Townsville Hospital Intensive Care Unit.
Despite initial progress, Dylan faced setbacks, enduring multiple seizures, undergoing four additional brain surgeries, and battling a brain infection along with persistent spasms.
The resilient 31-year-old is awake and responsive, but the full extent of damage and the path to recovery remains uncertain.
Dylan's partner, Laura (Georgie) Hardess, has been a constant presence at his side, providing a calming influence that contributes to his rest and recovery.
She and her family have also started A GoFundMe page to help fund Dylan’s recovery journey, raising almost $7,000 of their $20,000 goal in just under a month.
According to Laura, Dylan is mainly known for his ongoing community spirit and passion for making Herberton a beautiful, welcoming place to live and visit.
Laura said Dylan and her family were incredibly grateful for the love, generosity, and support they received from donations to the GoFundMe and family, friends, and the community supporting them in many beautiful, caring ways.
“People are still reaching out every day. This has helped so much and makes it easier to get through each day knowing we are surrounded by so much love and kindness from our hometown and surroundings,” she said.
“It's not just the money. It's the little things, like local businesses, community members, family and friends helping in special ways.
“If you are able, please consider donating what you can to Dylan and his family during this challenging time. Every little bit helps. Please also continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
Donations to help Dylan on his road to recovery can be made to the GoFundMe page, www.gofundme.com/f/dylans-road-to-recovery-you-got-this
