Aussie Olympian undergoes urgent surgery. What happened?
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Olympians are often lauded for their unbelievable strength, resilience and grit when it comes to sports events.
Yet there are reminders that sometimes, these athletes and achievers are human, too.
In a recent turn of events, an Aussie Olympic legend faced a significant health scare highlighting an Olympian's vulnerability, especially as they age.
Australian swimming legend Dawn Fraser AC MBE recently went through an emergency hip replacement surgery last Thursday following a severe fall at her daughter's home on the Sunshine Coast.
The fall resulted in a broken hip and four ribs, which prompted the urgent procedure.
Dawn Fraser's daughter, Dawn-Lorraine, and grandson, Jackson, stayed by her side throughout the 'frightening ordeal'.
Ian Hanson, a family friend who has been in close contact with the Frasers, reported that the swimming legend was back on her feet after the procedure.
'She greeted family and friends today with a smile, determined to get out of bed by herself and walk through the hospital with all of her grit and determination that made her one of the all-time greats of Olympic sport,' Mr Hanson shared.
The family expressed their gratitude to the medical team instrumental in Fraser's recovery.
They also praised the doctors and nursing staff for the exceptional care they gave to the Olympian.
Dawn Fraser, renowned for her remarkable achievements in the pool, has been synonymous with Australian sporting excellence.
Her unparalleled success in the 100m freestyle across three consecutive Olympic Games in 1956, 1960, and 1964 cemented her status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.
Olympic medals aside, Fraser also made history as the first woman to break the minute barrier in the 100m freestyle.
This achievement set a new standard for swimmers worldwide.
Her outspoken nature and beliefs also made her an iconic presence in the sports community—even after it cost her the chance to compete for a fourth Olympic title due to a controversial ban.
Beyond swimming, Fraser also made her mark in public service as an independent in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.
She served for the seat of Balmain from 1988 to 1991.
Dawn Fraser married Gary Ware in 1965. While the marriage was short-lived, she still became a mum and a grandmother later on in life.
News of Fraser's surgery prompted an outpouring of support from the swimming community and beyond.
Olympic gold medallist and goddaughter Lani Pallister shared her relief after news about Fraser's recovery.
'Dawn is not just an extraordinary athlete and icon; she is an incredibly special part of our lives, and her well-being is always in our thoughts, regardless of any injury or illness she may face,' Pallister shared.
Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse referred to Fraser as 'a living treasure' who is still in touch with the sports community.
'We wish her a speedy, healthy, and full recovery,' Woodhouse said.
As Fraser continued her rehabilitation in the hospital, her family asked for privacy during this time so she could focus on recovery.
While the road to full recovery may be challenging, if history has shown us anything, it's that Dawn Fraser is no stranger to overcoming obstacles.
We wish Dawn Fraser a swift and smooth recovery.
Do you have memories about Dawn Fraser that you would like to share with us? Send in your stories and well wishes for her in the comments section below.
Yet there are reminders that sometimes, these athletes and achievers are human, too.
In a recent turn of events, an Aussie Olympic legend faced a significant health scare highlighting an Olympian's vulnerability, especially as they age.
Australian swimming legend Dawn Fraser AC MBE recently went through an emergency hip replacement surgery last Thursday following a severe fall at her daughter's home on the Sunshine Coast.
The fall resulted in a broken hip and four ribs, which prompted the urgent procedure.
Dawn Fraser's daughter, Dawn-Lorraine, and grandson, Jackson, stayed by her side throughout the 'frightening ordeal'.
Dawn Fraser has been a constant presence in the Australian swimming community, even after her competing years. Image Credits: Austrralian Olympic Community, Wikipedia
Ian Hanson, a family friend who has been in close contact with the Frasers, reported that the swimming legend was back on her feet after the procedure.
'She greeted family and friends today with a smile, determined to get out of bed by herself and walk through the hospital with all of her grit and determination that made her one of the all-time greats of Olympic sport,' Mr Hanson shared.
The family expressed their gratitude to the medical team instrumental in Fraser's recovery.
They also praised the doctors and nursing staff for the exceptional care they gave to the Olympian.
Dawn Fraser, renowned for her remarkable achievements in the pool, has been synonymous with Australian sporting excellence.
Her unparalleled success in the 100m freestyle across three consecutive Olympic Games in 1956, 1960, and 1964 cemented her status as one of the greatest swimmers of all time.
Olympic medals aside, Fraser also made history as the first woman to break the minute barrier in the 100m freestyle.
This achievement set a new standard for swimmers worldwide.
Her outspoken nature and beliefs also made her an iconic presence in the sports community—even after it cost her the chance to compete for a fourth Olympic title due to a controversial ban.
Beyond swimming, Fraser also made her mark in public service as an independent in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.
She served for the seat of Balmain from 1988 to 1991.
Dawn Fraser married Gary Ware in 1965. While the marriage was short-lived, she still became a mum and a grandmother later on in life.
News of Fraser's surgery prompted an outpouring of support from the swimming community and beyond.
Olympic gold medallist and goddaughter Lani Pallister shared her relief after news about Fraser's recovery.
'Dawn is not just an extraordinary athlete and icon; she is an incredibly special part of our lives, and her well-being is always in our thoughts, regardless of any injury or illness she may face,' Pallister shared.
Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse referred to Fraser as 'a living treasure' who is still in touch with the sports community.
'We wish her a speedy, healthy, and full recovery,' Woodhouse said.
As Fraser continued her rehabilitation in the hospital, her family asked for privacy during this time so she could focus on recovery.
While the road to full recovery may be challenging, if history has shown us anything, it's that Dawn Fraser is no stranger to overcoming obstacles.
We wish Dawn Fraser a swift and smooth recovery.
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