Ankle Injuries Could Be Severe

By ANN Contributor Larry Garner

In the wake of Sunday's powered glider accident, John Moody's injuries are much worse that first thought, according to family and friends. He underwent surgery Sunday night to remove his tailbone (un-repairable) and first attempt at repairing his ankles.

Doctors now think Moody's ankles may not be repairable and have raised the spectre of amputation. One of his leg bones punctured the sole of his shoe, destroying the ankles bones. Tuesday, Moody underwent yet another surgery -- this one to explore and repair his pelvis. It is cracked on the right and broken in many pieces and twisted on the left.

One lung was collapsed from the impact -- apparently that is doing well now. His wife told me of the extent of his injuries and she even says that he may not walk again. Gary Ward has offered her a house to stay in here in Augusta, until John can be transported home. Many others have visited and offered support, and Mrs. Moody is very touched by it all. But hey, we're aviation people.
 
As ANN reported on Monday, Moody was performing at the Boshear/Skyfest 2004 in Augusta (GA) when he apparently stalled and spun into the ground from an altitude of about 50 feet AGL.

Augusta Aviation (Steve Gay) sent a plane to pick up his family in Florida and offered them another vehicle to use while they are here.
 
Moody joked about messing up the airshow, especially given that it was my first as Air Boss. The crowd thought it was part of his act until all of the emergency vehicles began to roll out. The show continued, but each performer had John in his thoughts, as we dedicated the balance of the show to John. 

 
Because Moody has no insurance and, while recovering, no income, friends have set up a relief fund. Please send donations to:

Boshears Memorial Fly-In, Inc.
C/O John Moody
1775 Highland Ave
Daniel Field
Augusta GA 30904

FMI: www.pioneerflyer.com