Richmond great Bachar Houli provides hospital update after horror car crash in Canberra
Richmond great Bachar Houli gives hospital update after horrific car accident in Canberra during camping weekend: ‘I’m grateful to have another chance in life’
Richmond great Bachar Houli said he was grateful to be given “another chance at life” when he shared an emotional update from hospital almost two weeks after surviving a serious car accident.
The 35-year-old was airlifted to a hospital in Melbourne on June 12 after suffering a broken pelvis and other fractures when his ute rolled over after a camping weekend with friends.
The former three-time Premiership star retired in 2021 after an illustrious career spanning 232 games, including 26 with Essendon and 206 with Richmond.
‘I hope everyone is having a fantastic day. I just wanted to share this short message as an expression of gratitude,” Houli said in a video he shared on Instagram.
“I just wanted to show my gratitude to all those caring people here who have asked about my progress.
Bachar Houli said he was recovering well after a serious car accident on June 12
The 35-year-old was airlifted to a hospital in Melbourne after his ute rolled out after a camping weekend with friends
‘I had successful surgery on my pelvis, which was quite damaged. That is clearly arranged.’
Houli’s brother-in-law Khaled was also involved in the crash, which took place near Canberra.
Khaled is said to have had a more serious condition, but his circumstances remain unclear.
“The fact that I can breathe again, to have another chance in life that the Almighty has given me,” said Houli, a devout Muslim.
‘Cause it could very well have been much worse.
“He really tests those he loves. I assume that the Almighty loves me and that he put me through this test. And there is wisdom behind it.
‘Thank you everyone for your support. I really really appreciate it. Inshallah God willing I can catch up with you all and share a smile.
“But the good thing is that I am cheerful and well-groomed. Very good care.’
Houli has won three premierships with Richmond since joining the Tigers in 2011
Houli made his AFL debut in 2007, playing for Essendon. However, he really blossomed after moving to the Tigers in 2011.
Known for his exceptional skills as a defender, Houli became a key player for Richmond, known for his interception markings and accurate takedown.
He was a vital member of the team that won the AFL premiership in 2017, breaking Richmond’s 37-year drought.
Houli’s profile as one of the sport’s few practicing Muslims led him to become heavily involved in community outreach, and he won the Jim Stynes Award, given annually to the player who performs the most significant community service.