Erica Modra, wife of Adelaide Crows and Fremantle Dockers' legend Tony Modra, has broken her silence about the tragic, freak accident that has, in recent days, threatened her husband's life.
The cult hero's wife expressed gratitude for the love and support extended to her family in the wake of Tony's severe injuries, and admitted that there is a 'long road ahead' in order for the 57-year-old to make a recovery.
The statement, issued on Monday evening, read as follows:
"We want to sincerely thank the many people who have reached out in recent days with messages of support, care and encouragement following Anthony's accident.
"There has been an overwhelming show of love from our friends, extended family, the AFL community across the country, and broader public.
"We are deeply grateful. While it's not possible for us to get back to everyone individually right now, we are reading these messages and want you to know it means so much.
"Our children, Hayley and Luke, have told their Dad how Crows fans showed their support during Saturday's game and he was overcome with emotion and gratitude.
"What happened last Thursday evening was a freak accident. We are extremely grateful to the three passersby – including two people who were trained in first aid and another who provided comfort – who stopped to help within seconds. The emergency services' professionalism, care and swift action were extraordinary as well. Without doubt, they all played a critical role in saving Anthony's life.
"As parents, we want to acknowledge Luke, whose calmness and quick thinking helped coordinate an immediate response from emergency services, as well as Hayley who was first to the hospital.
"To all of the staff, specialists and surgeons at the Southern Fleurieu Health Service at Victor Harbor and Flinders Medical Centre, we could not ask for better expertise and care.
"Over the past four days, during which Anthony has twice undergone surgery, he has made encouraging progress.
"However, we are still working through the extent of his injuries and as a family, we are in a very challenging period. There's a long road ahead.
"We kindly ask for privacy so we can focus on Anthony's care and recovery. The Adelaide Football Club will provide updates, when appropriate, going forward."
