A Colombian window cleaner is fighting for his life in a Sydney hospital after plunging from a roof in the city's inner south last week, suffering devastating injuries including a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures.
The tragic incident in Rosebery
Luis "Lucho" Bonilla was working on a residential building at the corner of Rothschild Avenue and Epsom Road in Rosebery around 11am last Friday when the horrific fall occurred. The international student sustained life-threatening injuries that have left him in an induced coma at Royal North Shore Hospital.
According to a GoFundMe page established by his friends, Bonilla suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, multiple skull fractures with an extradural haematoma, and broken femur, ribs and forearm. Medical staff have placed him in an induced coma while he receives urgent medical care.
Long road to recovery ahead
The young worker underwent two surgeries on Monday to address his femur and forearm fractures, but faces extensive additional medical treatment. Doctors anticipate a lengthy recovery process that will include further surgeries, ongoing therapy and long-term rehabilitation.
"Lucho is currently in a critical condition and remains in an induced coma while he receives urgent medical care," the fundraiser page states. His friends describe him as "one of the most heart-warming, noble, and generous people you could ever meet."
Family racing to Australia
Bonilla's parents in Colombia are now attempting to travel to Australia to be at their son's bedside during this difficult time. The financial and emotional burden on the family is expected to be significant as they navigate international travel, accommodation costs and medical expenses.
"His family will also be facing significant emotional and financial burdens as they support him daily and navigate travel, living costs, and medical expenses," the fundraising page explains. Friends have asked for support, love and prayers during this challenging period.
SafeWork NSW confirmed they had been notified of the incident and inspectors attended the Rosebery site. A spokesperson highlighted that falls from heights represent a high-risk focus area for the workplace safety regulator. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fall continue.
