Being able to share this moment with Kijah was really special, after having surgery on the same day only 1 hour apart to doing our whole rehab together so far, has been really encouraging and reassuring to see that we are both going through the same thing. Each milestone we’ve hit has been together. And this particular milestone is extra special for us both, and is a huge step forward.
Read moreMy First few Weeks in Rehab
I have just moved out of phase 1 and have started phase 2a. I was in phase 1 for about 5-6 weeks, and honestly, I was getting a bit frustrated with myself for not meeting the criteria to be able to move on. So far, phase 2 feels almost identical—there are a few extra plyometric exercises like pogos and some small jumping mechanisms, but overall, it’s pretty much the same. The only real difference is that I can lift a bit heavier now. Honestly, everything was starting to get really repetitive, so I’m hoping this phase brings more variety to keep things interesting and challenging.
Read moreTullys experience at Brisbane City and Winning the League in 2024
Moving out of your comfort zone helps you improve in ways you wouldn’t think are possible, and mistakes are a natural part of improvement (everyone makes them), it’s how you respond and grow from them that really counts.
Read moreSurgery went well- the countdown has started!
To begin with, I have gone back home to Cairns. While I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by the love and support of my family, adjusting to this new reality for the next few weeks has been challenging. It’s a strange feeling how two weeks can feel like an eternity. Every day just blends into the next, as if I’m trapped in this never-ending cycle. Wake up, eat, ice and move my knee, sleep, repeat. The boredom is suffocating, and time feels like it’s standing still, draining me entirely.
Every day brings a rollercoaster of emotions, mixing between hope and frustration. Despite the challenges, I've come to realise that this journey is not only just about physical healing. It's also about mental and emotional resilience. Tasks that once felt so simple – like walking, straightening or bending my knee, and even regaining feeling in the left side of my leg, now feel like significant milestones. It’s a harsh realisation to see something that once came naturally now a distant goal.
I find myself celebrating small victories, like putting my socks and shoes on for the first time post-surgery, but it’s a reminder of how far I still have to go. Healing is undeniably a gradual process, and patience has become a crucial part of my life now and for the journey ahead. Every small victory, every moment of progress, no matter how tiny, is a step forward. It's about celebrating these little milestones and keeping the bigger picture in mind.
In these moments of struggle and frustration, the presence of my family has been my greatest comfort. Their unwavering support and love have made this difficult journey a bit more bearable for the time being. Though the road ahead is still long, knowing that my family is just a phone call away and feeling surrounded by those who truly care for me gives me strength to stay positive. Even though it’s only been a few weeks, this experience has already taught me a lot about myself and the importance of gratitude. I am grateful for the things I once took for granted, like the simple ability to move without pain. I am grateful for the incredible support system I have around me. And most importantly, I am grateful for the strength I’ve found within myself to keep pushing forward, one step at a time.
“grateful for the things I once took for granted”
As I continue this journey, I know there will be good days and bad days. There will be moments of joy and moments of doubt. But with the love of those around me and a renewed sense of determination, I am ready to face whatever comes next. This is a reminder that healing is a multi-factored process. It's not just about mending the physical wounds but also about strengthening the mind and essence. Each day brings new challenges, but it also brings new opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Embracing the journey, with all its ups and downs, is essential to finding true healing and resilience.
This obstacle right now might feel like the end of the world, but looking back in a few years, it might have been the best thing that could have happened to me. It gives me the opportunity to work on the things I never had or were weaknesses of mine. If I stay positive, which I know I will but it will be hard, I'll come back from this fitter, faster and stronger.
In my next blog post, I'll share an overview provided by my physio detailing what the next 9-12 months of my rehab journey will look like.
Tully 1st Post
Hello, my name is Tully Heatley, I’m a 17 year old footballer from Queensland, Australia. I'm blown away by the incredible support I've received from everyone since my injury in June 2024. The generosity and kind words have truly lifted my spirits during this challenging time and I can't thank you all enough for everything done to help me get to this point. In just a short amount of time, many people close to me and even those that I have never met helped me raise the funds I need to undergo surgery on 25th July. I'm nervous, of course, but I'm also feeling hopeful. With the support behind me, I know I can overcome this obstacle and come back stronger than ever. My goal of representing Australia is still very much within reach, and I can't wait to keep you all updated on my progress through this blog as I embark on the long road to recovery. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for standing by my side. I'm truly blessed to have such an incredible support system. Tul
In June 2024 I was invited to trial with an A-League club for a professional contract. During the trial I suffered a serious injury to my left knee, rupturing my ACL and partially tearing my MCL. I need surgery which involves reconstructing my ACL and then 12 months rehabilitation before I will be able to play again.
Unfortunately, because the injury was sustained interstate, the costs of surgery and loss of income are not covered by insurance from my club registration. So I have created this page to try and help me get through the necessary surgery and my rehabilitation, and get back to playing football. The surgeon has told me it will take 12 months to make a full recovery.
This is a major blow at a crucial time at the beginning of my football career and my final year of school, and I will also suffer loss of my part-time income while I recover from surgery.
I have loved playing football since I was little. I have represented Cairns (Peninsula) region in U12 football and futsal State Championships in 2019 (awarded futsal player of the tournament) and U15 School State Championships in 2021 where I was selected in the U15 State team.
When I was 15 years old I moved from my home in Cairns, away from my family and friends, to live in Brisbane where I played for Queensland Academy of Sport. I attend Kelvin Grove State College where I am part of the football excellence program and I represented Metropolitan North region at the U19 School State Championships in 2022, where I was selected in the State team. I also represented Queensland at the U16 Youth Championships in 2022 and at the U18 National Training Challenge in 2023.
In 2023 I was selected in the Future Matildas program and was selected in the extended squad for U20 national team (Young Matildas).
This year I am completing year 12 and playing for Brisbane City FC. Last month I was named in the extended squad for the upcoming Young Matildas camp and I travelled to Sydney for a week of training as part of the Future Matilda’s program. Following that, later in June was when my injury occurred.
The year ahead will be the biggest challenge I have had to face, but I am confident I can come back from this injury stronger and achieve my goal to represent Australia. But I need help to get there. If you feel you would be able to help support me in this journey, I would very much appreciate it. It would also be appreciated if you could share this with someone to help spread the word.
Thank you in advance to everyone taking time to read this far, and also for any help offered!
Welcome to Tullys Blog
This blog is dedicated to all the female footballers out there. Stop, Listen and Learn to shared experiences of players, families & experts on the impact of Knee injuries. The Blog has been designed to ensure you have the best and most up to date understanding of the injury, its impact (holistically), treatments and rehabilitation.