The Australian icon’s name resonates with generations of Australians.
For many, she’s the original ‘golden girl’—a swimming legend whose Olympic triumphs made her a household name and a national treasure.
But in recent months, their greatest battle hasn’t been in the pool, but in their own home, facing a series of health crises that would test even the toughest of champions.
A sudden fall and a life-changing injury
In December last year, at the age of 87, Dawn Fraser suffered a serious fall on the driveway of her Sunshine Coast home.
The accident left her with multiple broken ribs and a shattered hip, requiring an urgent hip replacement.
Such injuries would be daunting for anyone, but for someone in their late 80s, the risks are even more pronounced.
Doctors were frank with Fraser and her family: the surgery was dangerous, and there was a real possibility she might not survive the anaesthetic.
‘That was the frightening part, was the fact that I might die under anaesthetic and I didn’t want to die that way,’ Fraser said.
The gravity of the situation was such that her daughter, Dawn-Lorraine, was asked to be ready to make critical medical decisions on her behalf.
Alone and injured—but not defeated
At the time of her fall, Fraser’s daughter and grandson were out. Alone and in pain, she managed to use her mobile phone to call her neighbours for help.
‘It was a shock for me. Thank goodness my neighbours were home and came over and looked after me,’ she recalled.
Their quick response ensured she received the urgent medical attention she needed.
A heart-stopping ordeal
As if the fall and surgery weren’t enough, Fraser’s ordeal took another frightening turn. Weeks after her operation, while at her local surf club, she began to feel faint and collapsed.
‘They said that my heart had stopped for five seconds and I had a very low heart rate,’ she said.
This cardiac episode led to her being fitted with a pacemaker—another major adjustment in her already challenging recovery.
The long road to recovery
Fraser’s hospital stay stretched to five months, during which she lost 22kg and faced bouts of depression.
Her daughter, Dawn-Lorraine, described the experience as a ‘nightmare’, while her grandson Jackson admitted, ‘I always saw her as invincible.’
The emotional and physical toll was immense, but Fraser’s fighting spirit—the same one that saw her break 27 world records—never left her.
Returning to the water
Despite being ‘a little bit fragile on her feet’ and acknowledging that ‘it’s a fight every day’, Fraser has returned to the pool to rebuild her strength.
‘I’ve just started swimming again, and I’ve got to accept that doing that sort of exercise that I used to do when I was training has kept me going,’ she said.
For Fraser, swimming isn’t just about fitness—it’s about reclaiming her independence and sense of self.
The importance of family and community
Throughout her ordeal, Fraser’s family and neighbours have been her lifeline. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of having a support network, especially as we age.
Whether it’s a neighbour who answers a call for help, or family members who advocate for us in the hospital, these connections can make all the difference in a crisis.
A national treasure, still inspiring
Dawn Fraser’s legacy as one of Australia’s greatest athletes is secure. She won two gold medals at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, reclaimed gold in the 100m freestyle at the 1960 Rome Olympics, and again at the 1964 Tokyo Games.
She was the first female athlete to be named a Legend by the Australian Sport Hall of Fame in 1993. But perhaps her most inspiring achievement is her resilience in the face of adversity.
Lessons for all of us
Fraser’s story is a timely reminder that life can change in an instant, especially as we get older. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older Australians, and recovery can be long and difficult.
But with determination, support, and a willingness to adapt, it’s possible to overcome even the toughest setbacks.
If you or a loved one has experienced a fall or health scare, remember:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help—from neighbours, family, or medical professionals.
- Stay connected—social support is vital for recovery and mental health.
- Keep moving—gentle exercise, as approved by your doctor, can aid recovery and boost your mood.
- Advocate for yourself—or have someone you trust do it for you, especially when facing big medical decisions.
Have you or someone you know faced a similar health challenge? How did you cope, and what advice would you give others? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—your story could inspire someone else on their own road to recovery.
Also read: Sports legend breaks silence on injury’s toll—it’s worse than you think
