In what authorities are calling a rare but serious training mishap, a 21-year-old national serviceman from the Singapore Armed Forces sustained a major spinal injury. The incident took place during unilateral parachute training in Taiwan this Wednesday night.
The serviceman, Private Joshua Quek Shou Jie, was promptly taken to a nearby tertiary hospital following the accident for emergency medical care. According to the Ministry of Defence (Mindef), Quek underwent surgery on Thursday morning without any complications and is currently reported to have a stable condition.
While Quek remains under intensive care, an orthopedic specialist from Singapore has joined the medical team to oversee his care. Further treatment to stabilize his cervical spine injury is being planned as part of his recovery process.
Mindef has also reported that Quek’s family has visited him in the hospital, with both of his parents having spoken to him. Quek is conscious and lucid, and the family has requested privacy during this challenging time.
The Singapore Armed Forces, alongside Mindef, is investigating the cause of the accident. In the meantime, parachute training activities have been put on hold until further notice. Mindef and SAF have pledged to provide full support and assistance to Quek and his family throughout his recovery.
Source: Yahoo Canada Shine On