The mother of a Scottish football fan injured in a car crash in Germany says she is ‘grateful’ her son has been able to take his first steps after back surgery.
Gary Ellis, 23, collided head-on at the Weeze Airport exit as they headed to the opening match of Euro 2024 in Munich.
Passenger Gary and four other friends in the car, two aged 25 and two aged 23, were taken to hospital on Friday 14 June.
Gary from Dundee had surgery on his broken back on Monday and is now recovering in Germany. His friends are already home in Scotland.
His mother, Mandy Coleman, said she is overwhelmed by the support the family has received.
After the crash, Gary’s good friend, Graham Pert, set up a GoFundMe page. A target of £15,000 was set, while the budget is now over £11,000.
His mother said the situation was “surreal.”
She said: “The love, well wishes and generosity is just outstanding.
“Strangers who don’t even know us, or Gary who was just touched by the event and gave so generously.
“It will go a long way to helping him with this recovery, and supporting him through this time until he is healthy enough to return to normal life.”
Gary is working with physios to get back on his feet. He is starting to walk again, but is expected to have a long recovery.
Gary’s mother, father and girlfriend traveled to Germany to support him.
Mandy said Gary’s positive attitude has kept them going.
“You know what it’s like as a parent. Sometimes a switch goes on and you just have to deal with it because you have no choice but to do so.
“Very worrying of course, but we are dealing with it as best we can during the day and trying to be positive and optimistic for Gary’s sake,” she said.
Gary may need more surgeries within 12-18 months.
Mandy added: “He is a very healthy and fit young man, very active, and he is determined to regain his mobility.
“I think with his determination, the love and support from everyone, we are confident he will make a good recovery.”
In a Facebook post, Gary showed a video of himself walking after surgery.
He said: “The biggest physical and mental challenge I have ever faced, but nothing can beat me.
“Thank you everyone for the support.”
