Hospital bosses have issued an encouraging update on the condition of MP Helen Haines, as she continues to recover from an alleged attack outside her electorate in Wangaratta.
But it has now been confirmed by The Alfred Hospital, where she is being treated, that her condition has been upgraded to stable.
The Federal independent MP has been in hospital ever since she was repeatedly struck by a car outside of her electorate office in Wangaratta on October 19.
The injuries she suffered in the incident were so severe that she required both of her legs to be amputated.
Helen Haines is now in a stable condition following her alleged attack Picture: Instagram
A spokesman for The Alfred has today confirmed her condition upgraded to stable – although she continues to receive inpatient care.
Brendan Nugent, of Tarrawingee, stands accused of attacking Dr Haines by repeatedly driving his car into her.
He was arrested following the incident and has been charged with dangerous driving causing serious injury and intentionally causing serious injury.
He is also charged with the federal offence of causing harm to a Commonwealth public official and two unrelated drug offences.
Mr Nugent, 43, has appeared in court over the charges, but is yet to formally enter any pleas.
Speaking in the days following the incident, Dr Haines’ husband Phil Haines described the MP as a “fighter”.
Dr Haines has been in hospital since October 19. Picture: NewsWire / Martin Ollman.
“She is a determine person to do her best, with our support and love, to recovery,” Mr Haines said. “And that is what we hope for.”
“What took place was a horrendous incident, and as you know, it caused Helen significant injuries.
“Her heart is huge – she is a very compassionate, caring, loving person, incredibly supportive of all around her.”
MP Helen Haines’ First Words Since Alleged Attack Revealed
Outpouring of public support sparks fundraising blitz
In the aftermath of the incident, Dr Haines’ husband launched a fundraising plea for anybody wishing to offer support or well-wishes as she recovers.
The fundraising campaign was set up in the name of Save the Children, a charity the MP holds close to her heart.
In the wake of the alleged attack, Australians far and wide dug deep into their pockets to support the campaign.
Helen Haines with her husband Phil. Picture: Instagram
As of November 6, the fundraising page was closing in on $1.5m, as thousands moved by her plight made donation.
It hit the “extraordinary milestone” of $1m in less than a week, eclipsing the seven-figure mark on October 23.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been among those to pay tribute to Dr Haines during her road to recovery, describing the shock of the incident as “like a stone in our hearts”.
“Right now, our friend and colleague is in hospital, grievously injured. The shape of her life and her family’s lives have changed forever,” he said in parliament.