Lawson Smith was an intelligent, charismatic 20-year-old with a promising future when a skateboarding accident dramatically altered the trajectory of his life. 

Dearly loved by friends and family for his kind heart and engaging humour, Lawson and his twin brother are the youngest of four boys in the Davies-Smith clan.

After graduating from Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, Lawson was studying Marine Biology & Geology at the University of Western Australia. He was passionate about marine conservation with noble ambitions of safeguarding our planet's health, and working towards a sustainable future.

Even as a student, Lawson made fortnightly donations to Australian Marine Conservation Society, and Sea Shepherd Australia.

He also loved underwater photography and was keen to transition to professional ocean diving qualifications.

Unfortunately, Lawson was unable to continue his studies. On Christmas Day, 2012, he sustained a catastrophic brain injury after a skateboard fall during a family gathering. 

Lawson was not expected to survive his injuries. He experienced a rollercoaster of brain surgeries and life-threatening complications for five months before Royal Perth Hospital considered him stable for discharge.

The next stage of Lawson's treatment was expected to occur at Shenton Park Hospital. WA’s State Rehabilitation Service, however, refused his admission. Lawson was still unresponsive and the team held little hope for his recovery.

Instead, when RPH advised that Lawson would be discharged to an aged-care facility, his family made the alternative decision to take Lawson home. 

The hospital provided his parents with care management training before Lawson transferred to Bunbury Regional Hospital whilst transitioning from the hospital system to round-the-clock care at home. 

Two weeks later, as he lay comatose in BRH, Lawson’s mother asked if he could hear her voice. Until then, it was not known if he could see, hear, or comprehend. She asked Lawson to try moving towards her voice if he understood her question. Time stood still in that unforgettable moment as Lawson slowly rolled his head in her direction.

Lawson was still here!

The following week, unable to move his limbs, eat or drink by mouth, speak, or visually track with his eyes, Lawson returned home to rehabilitate with his family.

May 29, 2013.

"With infinite love and gratitude"  Lawson Smith