MP Helen Haines' condition upgraded to stable after hospitalisation
The Alfred Hospital confirmed that federal independent MP Helen Haines is now in stable condition following severe injuries sustained in a vehicle attack.
The Alfred Hospital said Helen Haines, the federal independent MP, has been moved to a stable condition while continuing inpatient care. Haines was struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta on October 19, resulting in the amputation of both legs.
Brendan Nugent, 43, of Tarrawingee, has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury, intentionally causing serious injury, a federal offence of harming a Commonwealth public official, and two unrelated drug offences. He has appeared in court but has not yet entered a plea.
"Right now, our friend and colleague is in hospital, grievously injured. The shape of her life and her family’s lives have changed forever," Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said in parliament.
Haines' husband, Phil Haines, described his wife as a determined person working toward recovery. He also launched a fundraising appeal in the name of Save the Children, which had raised close to $1.5 million by early November, surpassing $1 million within a week of its launch.