Olivia Corbiere Beats 5% Survival Odds After Skiing Accident in Bulgaria

Olivia Corbiere, a 23-year-old skier, has made a remarkable recovery after falling 15 feet down a ravine while skiing in Bansko, Bulgaria. Initially given only a 5% chance of survival, Corbiere has defied the odds and returned home after a six-week hospital stay, though she still faces some lingering injuries.

The accident, which occurred in March, left Corbiere with severe injuries, including a brain bleed, lung damage, a broken pelvis, and three fractured vertebrae. She underwent four hours of emergency surgery, during which part of her skull was removed to alleviate a life-threatening brain bleed. Despite these traumatic injuries, Corbiere's resilience and determination have been key to her recovery.

Corbiere credits her survival to the quick actions of her sister, Phoebe Corbiere, 19, and five close friends who were with her at the time of the accident. 'The actions of my sister and my friends that day are the reason why I'm here,' she said. Three friends jumped into the ravine to help her out, while others called emergency services.

Her mother, Linzi Corbiere, 46, expressed immense appreciation to the medical teams in both Bulgaria and Britain who treated Olivia. 'It absolutely feels like a miracle recovery... The care back in England is second to none,' she remarked. Olivia has been able to regain her memory and even laugh about her ordeal, a tribute to her remarkable recovery.

Despite the severity of her injuries, which include hearing loss and nerve damage on the right side of her face, Olivia remains optimistic about her future. She hopes to return to skiing soon, stating, 'It was just an accident, it wasn't anything to do with how I was skiing. I've skied for years. I absolutely love it, and I shouldn't let something that was a complete accident put me off something I enjoy doing.'

A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Olivia's recovery, and she has expressed profound appreciation for the outpouring of support she has received. 'My mum spent a bit of time looking through it all and it was just fantastic. There are just so many good people in the world. I can't be any more grateful,' she said.

Olivia Corbiere's story is an inspiring example of resilience and the power of quick and decisive action in the face of life-threatening circumstances. As she continues her recovery, she remains hopeful and determined to return to the activities she loves.

Key Takeaways

• Olivia Corbiere, 23, fell 15ft down a ravine while skiing in Bulgaria.
• Initially given 5% chance of survival, she defied odds and returned home.
• She suffered severe injuries, including brain bleed, lung damage, and broken pelvis.
• Quick actions of her sister and friends helped save her life.
• Olivia hopes to return to skiing soon, despite lingering injuries.