Fungal infection destroyed a Marine’s face after a plane crash — when a transplant wasn’t an option, doctor's one ‘crazy idea’ changed his fate
Contracting a fatal fungal infection after a serious accident can push anyone to assume that there is no chance of recovery. That's what US Marine Corps Corporal Travis Reyes and his family thought when an infection destroyed his face partially. After multiple procedures following a serious plane crash that took the lives of many, there was no certainty that Travis would come out of it. When the infection further risked his chances of survival, there wasn't much the doctors could do. However, one "crazy" idea from one of his doctors saved his life. Reported by ABC News on Sunday, May 3, 2026, one medical professional suggested an unusual approach to change Travis' fate, and it worked miraculously.
Travis Reyes was part of the tilt-rotor MV-22 Osprey in Australia's Defense Force-run exercise. However, on August 27, 2023, the plane he was in did not make a smooth landing, and it crashed. Travis was immediately taken in by the medical team and was given emergency treatment. However, amidst the multiple injuries and a worsening condition, the marine caught an invasive infection from a tropical fungus. All possible options, including face transplant and other surgeries, were dismissed. But Dr. Bridget Devaney came up with an idea. Dr. Devaney, who specialized in hyperbaric chambers, suggested the team adjust Travis' oxygen levels and atmospheric pressure to help his cells heal.
According to a study published in PubMed, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has been proven to be beneficial in treating lethal infections. According to multiple patient case studies, they were treated with antifungal therapy along with hyperbaric oxygen, which caused no complications in the patients. "HBO is a potentially significant adjunct in the treatment of invasive fungal infections," the study noted. However, the procedure was new, and putting up a chamber was challenging. Yet, the doctors said yes to the "crazy" idea, and fortunately, within 15 days, he recovered. Ever since Travis got his life back, many people across the world have expressed their interest in learning more about it. "Other people are now starting to do some testing with ECMO in their chambers as well. So it's really exciting," Dr. Devaney said.
In addition to the fungal infection, Travis had multiple broken bones, and his left lung and spleen had to be removed. After eight months of intensive treatment, Travis flew back to Texas with his family. Following the recovery, both Travis and his wife Jasmine spoke about visiting Melbourne someday in the future. "We both definitely want to visit Australia soon, because especially after the virtual reunion, he's more excited about meeting everybody and just really getting to give his gratitude face-to-face," his wife revealed.
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