THE family of a Belfast man who was left in an induced coma after he suffered a "devastating blow" to the head in Australia at New Year have told of his "remarkable" recovery.
Almost seven weeks since Michael Hyndman was critically injured in Sydney, his family have told how he is "fully conscious and fully mobile".
At the weekend he was allowed out on 48-hour release from hospital.
Mr Hyndman, who is a quantity surveyor, moved to Australia in September with his fiancée Clar.
However on New Year’s Eve his family at home were told he was in hospital after sustaining a head injury in an altercation in Sydney.
Fearing for his life, relatives flew out to be by his bedside.
The 23-year-old, who had been due to start training with Craobh Phadraigh GAA club in Sydney, was placed in an induced coma.
He later underwent surgery to remove part of his skull to reduce pressure on his brain.
Mr Hyndman was later moved out of intensive care and on to a ward specialising in neurological rehabilitation.
Mr Hyndman’s family set up a GoFundMe page to raise money to fund his treatment. The campaign has so far raised almost £18,000.
Yesterday his brother Barry revealed that his brother was progressing well however had suffered a setback regarding surgery he is due to undergo.
"At this time, Michael remains in hospital in Sydney, where his rehabilitation is progressing well," said Barry Hyndman.
"However, Michael’s surgery, which was scheduled for early February, has since been postponed due to an unforeseen set back.
"The team of doctors caring for Michael, informed him that the piece of his skull that was in storage and due to be reinserted had unfortunately become infected."
Mr Hyndman said the extracted piece of skull "has since been treated with radiation and if it remains `clear' of infection for a few weeks the surgery will proceed as planned".
Mr Hyndman described his brother's recovery so far as "remarkable".
"Michael has undoubtedly displayed a considerable and admirable amount of courage and determination on this horrible journey that he has been forced to go on," he said.
"He has come so far but still has a long road to recovery ahead of him. Please ask God to give him the strength to overcome these challenges he may face in the days and months ahead."
Mr Hyndman also referenced the "dedication, commitment and expertise" of the medics who had treated his brother and also thanked all those who had supported the family.
"We cannot express in words how this has made us feel but for that assistance we are truly blessed and forever grateful to you each and everyone of you".
