Western Australian footballer Danny Hodgson, who fought for his life after a brutal one-punch attack caused catastrophic brain damage, was filmed playing the sport he loves in a heartwarming new video.
Hodgson’s life changed forever when he suffered an unprovoked attack in Perth in September.
Watch Danny again with a soccer ball at his feet in the video above
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But much to the delight of his family and supporters, he was finally discharged from hospital last month to continue his rehabilitation at home.
Hodgson has now been pictured with a football at his feet, with mum Nicola sharing a moving video of her son playing the sport he loves.
“Today’s physio is… football!” she wrote on social media this week.
“This boy won’t let anything hold him back.”
Danny Hodgson back with a football at his feet again
The England-born footballer was walking through town alone and vulnerable after a night of drinking when he suffered the merciless blow that left him unconscious.
His 17-year-old attacker was sentenced last month to just under four years in prison for the brutal attack.
The shocking assault shattered the world of family, as Hodgson’s parents rushed across the world to join him. They have been in Perth ever since.
Hodgson is struggling with a long road to recovery and has undergone several surgeries over the past six months, including having a piece of his skull reattached.
He had to relearn basic functions as if he were a newborn.
Supporters hailed the sight of Hodgson kicking a ball again, defending his “inspiring” recovery.
“It’s great to see Danny Hodgson kicking a football,” Football West shared online.
“So great to see you again with a ball at your feet Danny,” one woman wrote.
“Danny you are just amazing you have courage and determination,” said another.
