Leonardo Bove, a 16-year-old from Milan, has been discharged from Niguarda Hospital after six months of treatment for severe burns sustained during the Crans-Montana fire. According to official statements from President Fontana and Welfare Councilor Guido Bertolaso, Bove’s return home marks a milestone in a recovery process involving skin grafts, laser therapy, and physiotherapy.
Recovery Timeline from the Crans-Montana Fire
Leonardo Bove suffered burns over 50% of his body during the New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, an event that resulted in 41 deaths, including six Italian nationals. Following the disaster, Bove remained unidentified for 48 hours until a DNA test confirmed his identity at a hospital in Zurich.
Due to the critical nature of his injuries, Bove remained in Switzerland until January 11, when he was transferred to Niguarda Hospital in Milan. He was extubated on January 20 and subsequently moved from the intensive care unit to the specialized burn ward. His six-month hospitalization included multiple reconstructive surgeries and physical therapy to regain the use of his limbs.
Official Response and Community Support
During his hospitalization, Bove received visits from Italian President Sergio Mattarella, singer Achille Lauro, and a delegation from Inter Milan led by Beppe Marotta.
In a joint statement, President Fontana and Councilor Bertolaso described the discharge as “beautiful news that fills us with joy.” They noted that Bove’s return home testifies to the strength he showed during the ordeal and expressed support for his family and friends who assisted in his recovery.
Current Status of the Victims
While Bove has returned home, the impact on his school community remains visible. Two desks remain empty in his classroom at the Virgilio high school: one for Leonardo and another for Francesca, who remains hospitalized at Niguarda. Francesca is the last of the twelve injured individuals treated at the facility who has not yet been discharged.
Recovery Summary: Leonardo Bove
- Injury Severity: Burns over 50% of the body.
- Identification: Confirmed via DNA test in Zurich after 48 hours.
- Treatment Duration: Six months of hospitalization.
- Key Interventions: Skin reconstruction, laser sessions, and physiotherapy.
- Current Status: Discharged to home for continued rehabilitation.
Bove’s rehabilitation continues at home, focusing on both physical and psychological recovery as he seeks to return to his daily life and classmates.
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