A former Jasperite is in a desperate situation after a devastating accident while abroad.
While ice climbing in Colorado recently, Vratislav “Vrato” Durech fell approximately 40 metres. He survived the fall, but sustained a horrifying list of injuries including multiple facial fractures, a shattered femur with knee involvement, a shattered heel and a fractured and dislocated shoulder, according to his friend Jacub Bahnik.
“It is an absolute miracle that he survived,” Bahnik wrote on the GoFundMe page set up to support Vrato and his wife, Aneta Lukesova.
Vrato has been living in Squamish for the past several years, but his impact from his decade or so spent in Jasper is enduring. Not only did he help erect his fair share of construction projects around town as part of Don Meggison’s carpentry crew, but Vrato’s warm personality and Joie de vivre imprinted on the hearts and minds of many Jasperites.
“Vrato and his wife Anet have showed up for us in times of crisis on many occasions,” said Jasperite Marianne Dallaire. “They offered their home to us without hesitation when we lost ours in the Jasper wildfire and Vrato was by Pierre’s side when he had his skiing accident.”
Now Dallaire and other friends of Vrato’s are rallying together to help raise enough money to bring Vrato back to Canada, where he can continue his treatment.
“Due to the severity of his injuries, the only option is emergency medical air transport, which must be paid upfront,” Bahnik explained.
Vrato is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Grand Junction, CO, hospital.
“Thankfully, doctors confirmed no severe traumatic brain injury, and his vital signs are stable,” Bahnik said. “[But] he faces a long and difficult recovery.”
Funds raised through the GoFundMe portal will cover the transport to Canada. Any additional funds will go toward U.S. medical expenses, ongoing care, rehabilitation, and recovery, Bahnik said.
“Any amount donated is deeply appreciated,” Bahnik said. “Let’s bring Vratislav home.”
Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com
