Leigh McDonald

Leigh McDonald, has been a resident of Gippsland for most of his life and is widely recognised as one of the best local football players the area has ever seen. He has achieved great success as a player and coach, leading Churchill to a premiership and coaching Wonthaggi. Football has also taken Leigh across the country playing in 3 different state leagues.

However, Leigh's passion for the game has come at a cost. Over a span of 20 years, he endured more than 40 concussions, including a severe incident in the VFL where he was knocked unconscious and suffered a brain bleed. These repeated head injuries have led to Leigh being diagnosed with CTE, or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy.

Over time, Leigh developed depression, anxiety, memory loss, daily headaches, anger outbursts, suicidal thoughts and tendencies, with significant decline over the last 5-6 years.

However, because of the efforts of his wife, Michelle and his supportive neurologist, he was able to turn the corner and get back on track with his life.

Leigh shares "I still have very tough times but I'm coping a little better... It forced me to change the way I live my life, and now my diet and exercise are what keep me functioning."

Despite the challenges he faces, Leigh has chosen to use his experience to raise awareness about CTE. Leigh is also on a mission to help implement concussion protocols in regional leagues and has embarked on a campaign to educate others of the signs to lookout for with your loved ones after receiving head trauma. 

Leigh is set to run a marathon on the Gold Coast to raise funds and awareness for The Concussion Legacy Foundation, where he also serves on the board. Leigh's determination to show that it is possible to lead a fulfilling life with CTE is truly inspiring.