A Life-Changing Tribute

When 16-year-old Callum Stapley gazes at his lower left leg, he sees more than just an injury; he sees a reminder of the courageous decision that saved him from losing it entirely. Recently, Stapley paid homage to the surgeons at Kingston General Hospital (KGH) with a powerful tattoo that boldly displays the letters 'KGH' in an elegant old English font.

A Test of Survival

This heartfelt tribute comes after a harrowing incident last December when Callum, a hockey player for the Whitby Wildcats, faced a near-fatal accident while riding an ATV near Kingston. After rolling the vehicle and crushing his leg, he showed remarkable strength by freeing himself before blood loss became critical. Realizing the severity of his injuries, he fashioned a makeshift tourniquet.

The Race Against Time

Struggling to call for help, Stapley faced yet another challenge—he couldn't pinpoint his location to the dispatcher. However, emergency responders were swift, arriving shortly after, and rushed him to KGH where time was of the essence. "Callum's was a limb-threatening injury," recalled Dr. Linden Head, a plastic surgeon at KGH. Immediate action involved cleaning the wound to prevent infection.

Endurance Through Surgery

Stapley's path to recovery was anything but straightforward. Over two days, surgeries stabilized his damaged limb before reconstruction could begin. The ordeal included multiple procedures involving plates, rods, and skin grafts—from his right leg to his severely injured left leg.

A Fight for Recovery

Despite the pain, Stapley maintained an unwavering goal: to play hockey again. Undergoing rigorous rehabilitation, he defied the odds, dropping weight but gaining strength and commitment. His dedication culminated in a practice skate with the Oshawa Generals from the Ontario Hockey League.

Forever Grateful

Reflecting on his journey, Stapley’s tattoo isn't just a design; it’s a symbol of gratitude. "I won’t ever forget what everyone at KGH did for me. It's my way of letting them know that I appreciate everything and it’s with me forever," he expressed.

A Testament to Grit

Dr. Head highlighted the remarkable resilience Stapley displayed during his recovery, reminding us that while medical professionals can perform surgeries, the will to heal rests on the patient. For Callum, the journey ahead is about more than just ice rinks; it's about life itself—and he has much to look forward to.