The Unbelievable Story of Turia Pitt and Her Husband Whose Love Helped Her to Survive a Deadly Fire

In 2011, then-24-year-old Turia Pitt couldn’t imagine that her life would split into “before and after.” While competing in a 60-mile ultra-marathon, she was caught in a grassfire that changed her life forever. This is the story of the woman who survived those horrific events and her beloved partner who never left her side through it all.

In 2011, she was a mining engineer, living her dream life in Australia. Then, while competing in the marathon, she was caught in the middle of a deadly bushfire. At first, she underestimated its dangers. But then, when the fire started to feed off everything in its path, she realized she had to do all she could to survive.

A steep rocky cliff was the only place to go, so she quickly climbed it. She knew that fire travels faster uphill, and in no time, it would be the hottest possible place in the area. But she had no choice. She simply couldn’t outrun it.

Though the fire hadn’t yet reached her, she could feel her skin beginning to burn. But all she could think of at the time was her boyfriend. She was afraid she would never see him again, and that thought helped her to stay conscious and keep going.

Eventually, she was rescued. She was choppered out but remained in a coma with severe injuries. Doctors did their best but doubted her chances of surviving.

She no longer looked like she did before but managed to survive. Altogether, she spent 2 years in recovery and underwent reconstructive surgeries on her hands, face, and body.

And all this time, Michael, her boyfriend, remained right by her side. He even bought an engagement ring while she was in a coma. He strongly believed there would be a day he would give her that ring and they would get married.

On that fateful day, Michael was away on business. He was told that Turia was on her way to the hospital. But the doctors let him know he had to expect the worst. For the first time in his life, he faced an absolute nightmare.

He gave up work to care for Turia and stayed at her bedside for a month, hoping everything would be fine. He was taught how to change her dressings and feed her and knew exactly when she had to take each of her pills.

The following months were the hardest. They were filled with frustration, but Michael supported her through it all.

She admits at times that she found herself losing her temper with him. She wished he would give up on her, but he never did. His love made her realize she couldn’t just give up either. So she gathered herself up and worked hard to regain her health and strength.

Looking in a mirror was the worst part. It took her many more months to finally accept her new appearance. Mostly because of Michael, who constantly kept telling her, “I love your beautiful eyes,” “You’re looking beautiful today Turia. What are you going to achieve today?”

Many people wondered why Michael chose to stay. And he replied, “I was attracted to her soul and her character. She’s the only woman that will continue to fulfill my dreams.”

Eventually, that helped Turia to learn how to love and accept herself. And now she sees the same beautiful girl in the mirror that Michael sees. She knows that beauty comes from within and what really matters is who we are, not what we look like.

The couple overcame the trials of the injuries and recovery together and finally got married in 2016. Now they have a new life and 2 beautiful children. Turia is still considered a medical marvel and went back to running, and she gives motivational speeches from time to time.

Never once did Michael treat her differently. He was in love with her personality before, which she’s still got. Their story is just more proof that real love exists and can withstand anything.

What about you? How do you manage to cope with difficulties in your family? Please share your stories in the comments below.