Undefeated: The story of Bali Bombing survivor Phil Britten

by Phil Britten

If I can inspire more people to be better human beings, to reach more goals, to treasure their loved ones more, then I will have achieved something real and powerful and positive. And maybe that's why I survived. - Phil Britten *** Phil Britten, a 22-year-old captain of the Kingsley Football Club and an Australian Football League hopeful, was on holiday in Bali with his teammates when terrorists bombed the Sari Club on October 12, 2002. Although he escaped, Phil's injuries were life-threatening, with burns to 60% of his body. Grateful to be alive, Phil began tough physical rehabilitation and, through sheer determination, returned to football just six months later. But, the battle was far from over. Fighting depression and the obstacles of his injuries, Phil entered a dark period. Now, ten years on, he is a professional martial artist, successful business owner, and married with two young sons. Told in his own words in this memoir, with contributions from his mother, his rescuers, and his burns physician, Phil's journey of recovery reveals an extraordinary attitude and a life worth living.

Genres: Nonfiction

204 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Ashley Popham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Im not a big book reader, however my wife and i were lucky enough to be given this book as a gift from the Britton family whilst Rebecca kindly visited us in hospital due to my son lukas(4)spirally breaking his femur a couple of days after christmas getting into a trampoline leaving my little man hospitalized for over 3 weeks in Thomas traction splint however as a result we were lucky enough to be connected through a circle of friends to Phil and Rebecca as their middle son Riley(6) had a break to his Femur bone only a weeks before my son, My wife and Phil's wife Rebecca only met for the 1st time in hospital, but from the outset i could see they were honest down to earth people who were kind enough to help my wife out and give her a some comfort and reassurance and we're so greatful for there intentions towards us. They're family gave us guidance and an open ear as a means for support and to help each other out and if they're ever in need of a favour or a lending hand, My family and i will be only to happy return the favour . Only someone who's broken a femur will understand how much it can really impact a household. Albeit, we're moving forward and signs are positive for our both boys. I cant compare, but i reckon my sons broken femur is only a dent in the road on his life journey compared to what Phil or any other person in bali went through on that night these malicious attacks took place. Phil showed he was willing to fight all demons to move forward in life and his courageous attitude that he dug up to get through treatment and rehabilitation to turn his life around is humbling...its things like this that make us so patriotic and proud to call ourselves Australians. A Truly inspirational read and hats of to you for the work you have put in to the Bali Peace Park and being a strong role model to many young ones who are taught about the day our world was unnecessarily impacted. Hopefully your story may change someone's life or at least have some impact on the younger generation who may rethink there situation, be greatful for the good things in life and stop taking life for granted. One thing will always stick with me from this book. My father obviously had the same theory as Phil's father on life, i know this because it was drilled into me throughout my entire upbringing to the point i carry apart of my dad with me everywhere i go now, as its written in tattoo Ink on the back of my body..."life is a revolving door -- as one door closes, another one opens" that has alot of bearing on what we choose to do with our lives and as a result how we spend living it

[Justine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks for sharing your journey Phil of the moving account of the Bali terrorist attacks and your experiences after. Whilst I have heard you speak a number of times I was still shocked at the extent of the injuries you suffered and amazed at your strength & resilience in surviving. Thank you for continuing to honour those who lost their lives in the tragedy and sharing your inspiring story.

[Michelle Whitfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just simply inspirational.

[Sophie Robins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this inspiring story of Phil's life.