A split second "stupid" decision almost cost student Oscar Mugerwa his life, and that of his friend, when he got the behind the wheel after a night out drinking.
While his injuries, which led to more than 20 surgeries and a partial leg amputation, are lifechanging, Oscar is grateful he is still here to tell his story, so other young drivers don't make the same mistakes he did.
Oscar is now an out-patient at Epworth Hawthorn, after spending months in hospital.
He joined Epworth HealthCare's Director of Medical Services, Continuing Care and Support Services, Dr Kerry O'Meara, Victoria Police's Assistant Commissioner of Road Policing Glenn Weir and Police Minister Anthony Carbines to launch its state-wide Christmas road blitz.
So far this year 277 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads, with countless more injured.
Dr O'Meara says the trauma of road accidents last a lifetime.
"Road trauma patients start off in our major metropolitan trauma hospitals where their acute injuries are expertly treated. For many of these patients their journey to recovery starts once they come to rehabilitation. The physical injuries are just one consequence-an accident can impact every part of someone's life – their mood, sleep, relationships, work and family," Dr O'Meara said.
"We all know that accidents can happen, but when you see real people who are impacted for life by road trauma, it does hit home, especially when those accidents could have been avoided."
"Patients often spend weeks in rehabilitation, learning to walk after multiple broken bones, learning to eat and write again after a brain injury or how to manage changes in their thinking skills and memory. For many, simple things we take for granted must be completely relearnt as they heal."
Oscar is now focusing on his studies, rehabilitation and has a dream to compete at the Paralympics in basketball and rowing.
