Well-known Nowra couple Noel and MarieJose Kennedy who suffered serious injuries in an accident in Queensland on their way home from this year's Variety Bash could be home as soon as next week.
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The Kennedys' were injured in the August accident between Atherton and Innisfail, Far North Queensland after having completed the Bondi to Batt Reef in Port Douglas Bash.
The couple spent time in Townsville Hospital before being transported back to Sydney by plane in early September for MarieJose to continue her rehabilitation at the Manly Waters Private Hospital.
Mr Kennedy stayed with relatives, while also undertaking a rehabilitation program at the hospital.
Still wearing matching neck braces, Mr Kennedy said it is hoped they would finally return home next Tuesday.
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"If all the occupational and health requirements are in place at home, we could be back on the 22nd," he said.
Mrs Kennedy suffered horrific injuries including a broken neck and multiple spinal fractures, numerous broken ribs, a broken ankle, a dislocated knee and punctured lung.
She had been placed in a coma at the accident scene.
Mr Kennedy underwent surgery for a broken/dislocated neck, with vertebrae repositioned and an artificial disc inserted along with a fusion. He also suffered a broken sternum and leg.
"MarieJose is still in Manly Waters hospital for rehab but is up walking up and down stairs now," he said.
"She will need a walking aid for a while but is going great.
"We are both wearing matching neck braces for some time yet but should be fine in the future."
The couple's son Troy said the response from the Shoalhaven community to news of the accident had been "amazing".
"The support has been incredible," he said. "So many people have come up and visited them in Sydney or looked after their home.
"Neighbours have looked after the gardens - the support has been great.
"We are all just so grateful to everyone. We can't thank everyone enough.
"Mum and Dad are just now looking forward to getting home, continuing their recovery and catching up with everyone."