Scottish expat loses legs in Bangkok lorry crash
Family fundraising as doctors fight to stabilise expat after coma and kidney failure
A British man living in Thailand had both legs amputated after a horror motorbike crash with a lorry in Bangkok.
Willie Braid, a 54 year old expat from Scotland, was hit while riding his motorbike in the capital on July 27. The driver of the lorry is alleged to have fled the scene in what appears to be a hit-and-run incident.
The Scotsman was rushed to the hospital with catastrophic injuries and placed in an induced coma. Both of his legs had to be amputated below the knee. He also suffered kidney failure and is currently receiving round-the-clock care.
His sister June, who flew to Thailand after hearing the news, said Braid has now regained consciousness but remains disoriented.
“He’s come out of the coma, but he doesn’t know where he is or what’s happened. He recognises us, but he’s very confused. We’ve got a psychiatrist working with him, but he has no comprehension of his injuries or his amputations—he’s delirious. That could be caused by trauma or an infection.”
She praised the medical team, saying: “Thankfully, he is receiving exceptional care from the medics here, who are doing everything they can to get him better.”
Braid has lived in Thailand for five years. Due to the extent of his injuries, he is expected to remain in the trauma unit for at least three months before he can be transferred to rehabilitation. He is also undergoing kidney dialysis and remains unfit to fly, The Mirror UK reported.
“Right now, I’m taking everything day by day. Willie will have to stay in the trauma unit for the foreseeable future. As it stands, he cannot fly, but thankfully, he’s in the best hands possible.”
Once discharged, the Scottish amputee will need lifetime care and supported accommodation. June has launched a fundraiser to help cover his growing medical bills.
“Willie’s road to recovery will be long and challenging. He will require 24/7 care in Bangkok, as he is unable to travel until his wounds heal. Once stable, he’ll undergo rehabilitation and be fitted for prosthetic legs.”
So far, nearly £5,000 (232,500 baht) has been raised through public donations. The British Embassy in Thailand is also helping the family find legal support to track down the driver.
“Right now, we’re receiving support from the embassy to find a lawyer who will take our case up with the police. Until then, we will be fundraising to get Willie better.”
Visit Braid’s GoFundMe page to donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-assist-willie-with-fulltime-care-and-rehabilitation
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