It’s been 10 years since I suffered a life changing accident whilst surfing at Kirra beach and what better way to say thank you to all those who helped with my recovery then donating a photograph to the PA Hospital here in Brisbane.
Ten years ago, I was airlifted from Kirra beach thanks to the team at RACQ LifeFlight Helicopters and their decision to take me to the PA Hospital may be the reason I’m still able to walk today.
This was ultimately one of those life-changing experiences where it changed the course of my future and although I could’ve stayed housebound, feeling sorry for myself, I chose to face the challenges before me as I have done throughout most of my life, with a positive attitude and the drive to overcome the challenges! This soon lead to a new direction for me where I began photographing my friends in the Surf, getting involved with local surf clubs and making new friends.
I soon learned I was addicted to photography and that’s all I wanted to do. Some of my friends started to see my photographs and bought their first cameras. But, unlike me, they barely picked up the camera. I, on the other hand, would be found lurking the Southern Gold Coast beaches photographing top surfers and bodyboarders.
Today, I’m so lucky to be in a position with my career that I can give back to the community and give back to the PA Hospital. It’s my way of saying thank you to all the staff and I honestly hope it helps someone harbor their dreams and continue to look towards the future with positivity no matter their circumstance.
As for the print I donated. At first, it was pretty funny how the staff thought I was just offloading a print I had lying around the office. This wasn’t the case at all! I wanted the staff to choose the photograph, the size, the material it was printed on and the location it would be seen. They were so grateful and really made me feel proud to be giving back!
The print they chose was of Brisbane City Sunrise from Kangaroo Point 120x80cm, you can find it here. Framed in a mat black frame with white mat and a personalised plaque in the bottom.
Thank you once again to the staff at the PA Hospital!
Donating to the PA Hospital - 10 Years on from Jon Wright Photography on Vimeo.
