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Supporting Kye’s return to sport after a life-changing spinal injury. Helping him rebuild strength, independence and hope — whatever it takes.

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HELP KYE MCINTOSH FIGHT HIS WAY BACK TO AN ACTIVE LIFE In December, our beautiful Kye suffered a catastrophic spinal cord injury in a swimming accident at Wamberal Beach — the place he has grown up calling home. Kye sustained a fracture to his C5 vertebra. In an instant, everything changed. He was rushed to hospital and underwent emergency surgery to stabilise his spine. The days that followed were spent in Intensive Care, surrounded by machines and monitors, with his mum Lenise, dad Graham, and brothers Blaine and Darby by his side. The seriousness of a C5 spinal injury meant an uncertain road ahead — one that no family is ever prepared for. Born and raised in Wamberal, Kye is the youngest of three boys. He had just secured his drivers licence, and was on the verge of beginning his apprenticeship. He had his whole future mapped out — independence, hard work, mates, sport, the next chapter of becoming a man. Instead, he now faces the fight of his life. After time in ICU, Kye was transferred to the spinal unit to begin rehabilitation. Rehabilitation after spinal injury is not just about survival — it is about restoring participation, confidence and connection. It is about rebuilding identity. And for Kye, sport and an active lifestyle are everything. One of the early milestones in rehab was simply getting outside into the sun. It should have been a small win. But it wasn’t easy. He was nervous. His neck was causing him pain. The chair didn’t give him enough support. They’re trying a different one now to better support his neck. When he first felt the sun on his face, he became overwhelmed and frustrated. He said quietly, “It just makes me realise everything I’m missing.” So he closed his eyes. And we let him sit there. No pressure. No forced positivity. Just space. Afterwards, he said something simple but powerful: it was good to get outside. That moment became something bigger. In the middle of pain, fear and uncertainty, Kye came up with his own words — words that now carry him through the hardest days: “Whatever It Takes.” It’s not about pretending this is easy. It’s about deciding that no matter how hard the road is, he will meet it head on. Whatever it takes to rebuild strength. Whatever it takes to regain independence. Whatever it takes to return to the water, to sport, to life. The next 6–12 months will be critical in determining the extent of recovery from his C5 injury. The journey will require intensive physiotherapy, specialised spinal rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and ongoing support. Lenise and Graham remain by his side, navigating not only the emotional toll of a life-changing injury but also the practical realities of long-term rehabilitation. Blaine and Darby stand beside their little brother, proud and protective as ever. Kye is humbled by the outpouring of love from friends, teammates and the wider community. Many have asked how they can help. To give Kye the very best opportunity to rebuild an active and connected life, we have established this Australian Sports Foundation fundraiser. Donations are tax-deductible and will go directly towards his rehabilitation, specialist therapy, adaptive equipment and programs that support his goal of returning to participation in sport and community life. This is not the path he chose. But it is the path he now faces. And he faces it with three words that define him: Whatever It Takes. Thank you for standing with Kye and helping him fight forward.

All For Kye