When Gayle Shann lost her arms, husband Mac became her hands | Australian Story

Over the past 25 years Australian Story has travelled around the country, and the world, to tell a thousand stories. Subscribe: bit.ly/3nO2CDi
To mark our quarter century, we asked fans to vote for the episode they’d most want to revisit - and we listened!
With This Ring told the story of central Queensland horsewoman Gayle Shann who survived an horrific farming accident in 2002.
Australian Story first filmed Gayle and husband Mac in 2003, as they grappled with a new way of living life on the land. Our cameras have been rolling ever since.
In this heartwarming next chapter, we’re thrilled to discover the Shanns are thriving. Proving love really does conquer all.
#AustralianStory #GayleandMacShann
Watch the original 2003 Australian Story here: bit.ly/2ZhcHis
Read more: ab.co/3GieG6S
__________________________________________
Watch more Australian Story documentaries here: bit.ly/36ABH2J
You can also like us on Facebook: / abcaustralianstory
Follow us on Twitter: / australianstory
About Australian Story: Putting the "real" back into reality television, Australian Story is an award-winning documentary series with no narrator and no agendas - just authentic stories told entirely in people's own words. Take 30 minutes to immerse yourself in the life of an extraordinary Australian. They're sometimes high profile, sometimes controversial, but always compelling. It’s television guaranteed to make you think and feel. New episodes are available every Monday.

[@ABCNewsIndepth]

Want more Australian Story episodes? Check out our playlist here -----> kzbin.info/aero/PLDTPrMoGHssDzqF7spxT_VH3Zd266tSEp

[@charliesgrl2]

Please add “a beautiful day”

[@manzarelahi1812]

That nurse must be Gayle's guardian angel. That is remarkable that she was the only person performing first aid to save Gayle. She was there for 2 hours helping before any medical aid was able to show up. Without her, Gayle probably would have passed that day. I respect nurses so much, I feel like they don't get the recognition they all deserve.

[@veddyveddygood]

The definition of courage and perseverance. What a beautiful couple both inside and out.

[@964964limkyung]

agree

[@patricialegare6847]

Gayle you are doing great. There are people/ female that doesn't have any arms can put there own makeup on and feed them selves.

[@raynaleechambers4721]

​@@patricialegare6847 u HB

[@raynaleechambers4721]

​@@964964limkyung j in l nu n

[@janecallaghan2316]

She’s stunning, he’s just an absolutely lovely guy full of love. They were perfect,h matched for this journey

[@mandywilson3147]

Absolutely deep love beautiful couple💑

[@ethenreston6561]

The love that he had to his wife is remarkable. Pure and forever. God bless them both

[@juliebigheartthompson3440]

When best friends marry… Beautiful couple, beautiful story. No dry eyes here. Thank you, Gayle and Mac, for sharing your story so bravely and honestly; thanks to “Australian Story” for bringing their story to the world.

[@gilliangordon7774]

I don't think I've seen such devotion - true love ..... I'm humbled by this beautiful couple.

[@mareedehauterive2666]

This is what true friendship, love and dedication is all about May you have many more years to come ahead - in the same way Caring and sharing with each other in a very special way...

[@trentclark77]

I love people like this. No nonsense just a true and honest fighting spirit. My heart is with you guys & I wish nothing but the best for you all :)

[@caroldavis5877]

You two are a great team. Anyone dealing with a severe injury should be inspired.

[@danilojosecanonizado8144]

Saw your Many Admiring Folk On FaceBook..God Love 💕 You Two..

[@clutchcargo2419]

Gayle is stunningly beautiful and has a beautiful spirit.

[@mariahmcbride9017]

Right?! What is it about her that makes her so interesting and alluring? I really can't get over it

[@aikozh415]

They have aged beautifully

[@TheEarthHistorysConfusing]

Now that’s LOVE!. Blessings to you both for a happy life.

[@elainedunphy4339]

Now that's a true love story I wish them nothing but happiness for the rest of there lives

[@georgia4407]

Wow! What a strong woman. What an incredible man. What a beautiful couple! I would of fallen apart. She is blessed with so much richness in her heart!

[@BrassLock]

Thank You ABC, Gail and Mac for keeping us in tune with your unusual journey through life.

[@ABCNewsIndepth]

Our pleasure!

[@maradonjuan5090]

They're a beautiful couple! He's an Angel. May the Lord continue to bless your marriage. I admire both of you 🙏❤️

[@tinacollins2055]

That Mac has so lovingly taken over the care of Gayle, and that Gayle has ben able to let him is so beautiful.

[@manuelmagro4746]

What a wonderful story of love and courage. How can ANYBODY give it a thumb down??? May God bless you both.

[@BeKindToEveryKind295]

Love how much they love each other. I only wish to find it one day

[@Sandra-xf1dy]

Unfortunate circumstances but beautiful couple. Gorgeous woman. We need to clone that handsome, amazing man. World fixed. Done!

[@cherylpatch5104]

You can say that again sandra

[@cherylpatch5104]

yes z Sandra what a man i wouder if he has a uncle

[@Sandra-xf1dy]

@@cherylpatch5104 😊

[@mandyallan9579]

What a special husband Mac is And Gayle you are amazing, first time I’ve heard this story

[@jt.s.7418]

I'm a American from Colorado. I admire you both. Thank you for sharing your struggles and most importantly, your successes 🥰

[@pauladowning5592]

This is so inspiring. I have been suffering chronic pain for 30 years and have felt like giving up many times. But Gayle and Mac's story is so poignant and their love and strength so amazing, it's given me the will to carry on. God bless you, Mac and Gayle!

[@stephanieann8115]

It’s really something that you made this comment. I too suffer from chronic pain as well as depression and anxiety. I have been in a really bad place lately and have been contemplating ending it all. At least I know I’m not alone.

[@danilojosecanonizado8144]

@@stephanieann8115 - their (Gayle & Mac) LOVE GIVES ME A WONDERFUL MARRIAGE...

[@marthaworthington6060]

@@stephanieann8115 want you to know i now have two Stephanies to pray for. My dear only child, Stephanie, died unexpectedly, age 29 from an unknown heart problem. At times life has seemed unbearable, chronic pain from a serious auto accident, no siblings, burying my parents 10 mos. apart, etc, my husband died two yrs. after Stephanie. Please lean on your faith (whatever it may be). Get some anti- depressants. This pandemic is taking a terrible toll on the mental well being of everyone. As a last resort I got a dog and a kitty 4 years ago, they make me laugh, show so much love competing for my attention. They are well worth the extra responsibility and expense even though I wasn't sure about taking them on as a retiree. Just wanted to share how I've tried cope. (Thought this was deleted, so I sent the one below)🤔

[@marthaworthington6060]

@@stephanieann8115 Now I have another Stephanie to add in my prayers. My daughter Stephanie pased away unexpectedly (health) ar age 29, only child. Know that you will be in my daily thoughts and prayers. I ended up getting a little Havanese dog and a pound kitten to help with my depression.🐕🐱 They are such blessings as well as a lot of responsibility, but now it's keeping me going as they each demand my attention and are so jealous of each other it makes me laugh. Blessings to you, Stephanie Ann.🤗

[@bellab4797]

Gayle and Mac, it's wonderful to hear that you're both doing well, enjoying life and still very much in love. Look forward to catching up in another few year's. Thanks Australian Story for presenting us with such an inspiring story.

[@thetreasurehuntingboomer]

I've often wondered how this couple were .I remember this story when it happened.What a beautiful couple

[@agathaleon9826]

I'm so glad to see that they are doing well. She seems happy and they look at each other with love and respect ❤

[@kikishoshannacarter3089]

This is what true courage looks like.

[@michellematthews8332]

What an incredible example of love & courage! Sending much love from South Africa 💕🇿🇦

[@jaseciantar2760]

Never underestimate the power of love.... my partner and I have been together for close to 20 years.. and in 2019 after a fall I broke my neck and became an incomplete quadriplegic.. My partner is an amazing human. I have been through and still am going through some many emotions and been completely vicious and angry, and he bears the grunt of all of it.. but he has never faulted of just being there.. When you loose the ability to do the most basic of tasks, and when your partner does them not for reward but sheerly out of love it show their true character.. and for that I will be forever grateful

[@LA-cj5jq]

Partners who care are not amazing, not really. You are amazing to keep going despite everything. To be brave to try every day. Carer partners are people who love and couldn't ever imagine wallking away. No matter how scary it is in the beginning, no matter how hard it is some days. You are clearly loved, and deserve to be loved. My husband is hemiplegic from a brain tumour. 22 years together. I am not 'strong', I say I am just too stubborn to walk away 😀😁

[@ZungaGal]

I have the same diagnosis as you from a drunk driver, he hit us doing 180 mph. My boyfriend took off with my care aide. Never trusted again. I am 57 and I was 43 when the accident happened. Good luck Jase, love is wonderful when it’s true.

[@elisabethlawrence1435]

What determination and drive, well done. An absolute joy to witness.

[@anndoherty5860]

Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. You are a truely inspirational couple and deserve every happiness and success!

[@Mary-om2cs]

Love this couple! They are an inspiration to us all

[@petalgirl9960]

I met Gayle in Coles at Emerald once. I recognised her instantly and called out. She responded - and was so kind and humble. I remember crying uncontrollably with the first story. I couldn’t be happier that they have gone on to thrive through adversity. I wish them all the best life has to offer.

[@W3TFART]

Well it would be hard to not recognise her .

[@petalgirl9960]

@@W3TFART she’s actually even prettier in person than on TV and was very gentle and softly spoken.

[@janettawallace3722]

She is quite a lady. Admire her determination. Wish her and husband much love and many blessings.

[@stella3626]

What an amazing, strong woman! And her husband! What a man!

[@rdekel]

What an amazing love story. Beautiful couple.

[@janetaylor6362]

Just shows what true love and determination are.

[@NJSMKMMS]

So thrilled to see this couple again after so long. More than that to see how they have not only coped but thrived out there made this story even more appealing. I wish both of them all the very best going forward and look forward to hearing from both of them again.

[@justice-jb5ld]

What a brave and strong woman.

[@anneleblanc7861]

An amazing love story, which only proves that love concurs all. Thank you for sharing. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@andrewmacdonald4833]

I remember this story so vividly...and I'm so pleased and proud that these two are still together..wonderful story.

[@chrispy104k]

This is a remarkable story of love and determination. ❤️

[@jennyrules2694]

Very beautiful couple what a strong lady she is and very beautiful and I love how she loves her beautiful horses the whole famerliy are just beautiful people 🥰❤️

[@sshukla7975]

I love them, but always remember there are millions of women who take care of their disabled loved ones. But as soon as a man does it, he is a hero topnotch human being. I am not against it but just acknowledge the other way around way more. Coming from a daughter of a disabled father whose mother carried him for 40 years. She would be lost some days blowing up the next day but to make my father survive everyday she kept going. Those women are not celebrated enough. Power to them, 45 years on my father is still here and so as my mom, but the toll is immense. She died somewhere in between and have been living through us, her eyes are always empty. Makes me sad. Please celebrate them it gives them hope.

[@sweettoothmarie7304]

💖

[@aussiephotographer]

Wow how time flies. I definitely remember this story when it first aired. Had me in tears. What a beautiful beautiful couple. Great to see you again.

[@saritadugat3708]

What a heroic story. Thank God for the angels (her family,husband, neighbor nurse, doctors ) I pray you continue to have a positive and wonderful life. God Bless you all.

[@berniestar1490]

Truly inspiring, wonderful people surrounded by wonderful people.

[@elizabethcolombo3388]

Wow! What a story. You are a miracle. Speaking as a nurse I am thankful for Robin being there as that is what we do. You and Mac are a beautiful couple and I am in awe of your achievements. Not only on your ranch but in your marriage too. Best of everything and drop us all a line every now and then. I am in New York n am grateful 🙏 to have been touched by you two. Keep the fires going! 🔥

[@brendadillon7783]

She is the epitome of strength, love and grace! 🌸❤️💪🏼😘

[@susansuewwilliams]

So glad to see they're doing so well. Thank you

[@Howiesgirl]

I just want the Shanns to know that there have been many prayers & good wishes coming their way from the USA. When I saw their 1st episode of Australian Story, I was so awed buy them & their love & strength. I've been following their story, & was so thrilled to see this episode, so many years after the initial horror, & see how amazingly normal they've made their lives after Gayle's terrible injury. God bless Gayle & Mac, & each person who had a hand in saving her life after her accident. Their story is the most heartwarming thing I've ever seen. Much love from Pennsylvania, USA.

[@evewright1102]

What a wonderful man he is. Not many men would have stuck by there partner sadly enough, but this mans love for his wife is truely ever after. She also is a strong woman, and never gave up, she is giving her all to live life to the fullest and what a hero she is. I am so glad i give to the flying doctors every month and it would be nice if others could do the same to help with The Flying Doctors save lives in remote areas of our beautiful country. God BLESS THE FLYING DOCTORS 👍

[@sharonevans1257]

You guys are an inspiration for a lot of people. Don't ever give up

[@loriscook5231]

Amazing couple, to go through such terrible trauma, it’s truely inspiring. Loverly seeing Matt putting on her makeup, that really is love.

[@ABCNewsIndepth]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@SiphaG]

This was really beautiful to see the love Mac have for Gail. Such a inspirational story thank you 🙏🙏

[@yvonnekneeshaw2784]

So appreciate an update to Gayle and Mac's story. I shall not forget their courage, their love and hope they give others by sharing their experiences. Much losses have been experienced yet they have chosen to embrace courage to move forward. It’s what in the heart/spirit that determines what a “full” life can look like. What an example. I’m sure some days are still very tough but they have found alternatives to continue to live fully. Such Love 💕 ❤️🇨🇦

[@danilojosecanonizado8144]

TRUST IN TRUTH/ LOVE TO SEE THE CAREING EXPRESSED TO AND FOR THE COUPLE -MAC & GAYLE

[@lisah.375]

I worried about you both….I’m so happy to hear you are happy and doing well! It warms my heart!

[@tinacathey8241]

If only all men would be like this. Most would have run away. Sickness and Health Thank you for showing us there are great men out there! Gayle you are such an inspiration for so many, your strength is incredible. Thank you for sharing your story with us

[@lydiawilcocks2667]

The best love story I've ever seen or heard. They are both amazing people. 👏

[@roslyndrayton6716]

What an amazing couple. Love you both!

[@shellirk2819]

Yeah, this is my favorite love story ever. I wish them all the very best in the many years to come! From Oklahoma, US

[@robertmarino2158]

What a special young lady , so strong, Mac is amazing , prayers to both of them .

[@alexandramail930]

Such a beautiful and inspiring story. Thanx again Australian Story and thanx to Mac and Gayle too. X

[@judewade4568]

So very happy to see you both again. Your story is so inspirational and very much appreciated!! Thank you for letting us follow your journey and adventures in life. Wishing you both a very happy festive season. Hugs

[@CEK51]

Ohhh Matt….. watching you apply her makeup was about the sweetest thing I ever saw….. brought tears to my eyes‼️🌹❤️❤️👍👏🙏🏻🎶🎼. God Bless you both.

[@barbiedahl958]

IM from Big Bear California. I watched this story when the accident happened. Now seeing them eighteen years later it's lovely. God Bless you and the Love you share.

[@rodwilliams4170]

Anyone, I mean anyone looking for some sort of perspective on life and the challenges it can throw up , should watch this. We often whinge and moan about little insignificant things that really aren't all that important. Hats off to you guys for just being so honest and full of hope, even in the darkest of times. Have a Merry Xmas and thank you.

[@kelseymathias3881]

Gayle, you are beautiful on the surface and in your soul! Prayers that technology will help your left arm to get some motion back 🧡 Blessings to you and Mac. Not just the Australian public who loves you....hi from California!

[@elainebates6967]

The love is forever strong and true. Gayle and Mac have shown the 'True Love Story' of a lifetime and beyond.

[@BradGryphonn]

I followed their story because I lived and worked relatively close to the area they call home. Pretty amazing couple.

[@joeyphaahla]

Where is it?

[@ellenwheat3608]

Amazing courage and strength in both of you. Thank you for sharing your incredibly moving life story.❤️

[@patticake4566]

What a beautiful couple! Hello from America! Thank you for sharing your great story.

[@fanaticforager6610]

In sickness, & in Health ✨🙏🏼😌

[@AnnabelleJARankin]

Wow! The fact that they have such a strong bond makes getting on with life so much easier. Sad but comforting story - people CAN go on after tragedy, and Gayle did not suffer brain injury, which is in effect, worse.

[@angiemacleod8266]

What a heart-warming story. More power to you both.

[@julierogers1155]

Lovely, solid people. Wishing them both the best.

[@CJ-ri9vl]

What a Beautiful love story. May God Continúe to Bless you. Love from Dallas, Texas USA 🇺🇸

[@cherylpatch5104]

i also have one arm that works i’m just a stroke person after reading the unbelievable heart breaking story of you and your wonderful husband wow i will never winge again you certainlyhave inspired me with all your guts drive and determinations hen i think of all that horrific pain you endured god bless you both when ever i’m feeling down i will think of you to buck me up 🌺🙏

[@ABCNewsIndepth]

Thanks for sharing your story Cheryl

[@margaretsmith7712]

Hearts that love are always young,even the cattle are happy.....Thank you both for sharing with us your challengers with injuries,the Australian bush and hard conditions with droughts etc.....I am sure your story has heartened people everywhere ...May Almighty God hold you both in the palm of His hand and keep inspiring you and others every day.....Amen....

[@mrv6968]

What a wonderful story. I don't know if I could have handled the first story when the accident happened. This one sure puts everything into perspective. What a Silver Lining these two have captured. I know anyone with a disability struggles, but being an abale bodied adult and then so severely disabled shows how much drive , determination and Support Gayle has and got!

[@michellejaggard9657]

What amazing strong loving people you are, I am humbled by you. Thank you for sharing your lives.

[@amerudi111]

Wonderful how love overcomes all .. so happy for you. That's real.

[@suzannecotterill9007]

Such a brave, beautiful & loving couple 💕

[@audreytomlinson125]

Love from Jamaica may God continue to bless you and your family always

[@bernadetteapps9303]

I often think about Mac & Gayle and wonder how they are going, thank you Gayle, Mac & Australian Story for the update.

[@georgeminjarez6666]

“ Before, I used to be a person that people might find attractive .” It’s incredible how life finds ways to humble us & reminds us how lucky we’ve been & how good we actually have it …

[@susanjetton6880]

You are both beautiful people inside and out! You are blessed to have each other. I love your positive attitudes!!

[@claredown3028]

Always brings a warmth to my soul. Great love. Thanks for sharing 👏👏💕💕💕 Clare

[@donnachapman9887]

It's crazy how many times I have thought about this couple wondering how they were going since I saw the first story... was lovely to see this update

[@fuifoong9966]

Thank you for your inspirational life journey together. God bless you for many more years together. Love from Singapore!

[@reinarae7052]

(From the 🇺🇸), She is such a strong woman. Great content. It reminds me that we are all going through something. Sometimes we could never even imagine. A reminder to me, to maybe complain less and be grateful for the things I CAN do. To be grateful for life in general. && maybe we have to adjust as we go. And God bless both her and her husband & all the family and friends. My bf’s dad just defeated stage 4 kidney disease. We had just accepted he was dying, & last week he went to Emory for his infusion, and the cancer that had Metastasized from his kidneys to the spine, it’s all gone. The doctor said it’s unbelievable but he is cancer free. He lost 85 pounds since March/April. At at least 6 foot, He is 130lbs. And now suddenly he’s made a turn for the better. Thank God. So I think she could regain more strength than we can guesse

[@janetturner6771]

May God Bless this awesome couple !!

[@pattizapf4135]

Heartwarming story. What a blessing they are for each other to have a love that withstands so much. God Bless then

[@shahwilloughby4603]

My God what a beautiful couple they are. Gayle is an absolute trooper but Mac is something on top of that again. Wishing them all the best for the future.

[@marshabattista5662]

What a wonderful couple. God bless you both

[@lizadesrochers3107]

This is a beautiful story on how love can conquer all.❤

[@roseromano2616]

Thank you for sharing your story! Great testimony! God is good!

[@ivanpaultaurua9246]

This is truly amazing story the realistic adaptation of a serious accident and her superhuman recovery fight plus the incredible connection between husband and wife’s determination to move forward regardless and Gails independent fighting spirit given her previous competitive nature to not give up and Max’s undeniable devotion is priceless with lifetime commitment to Gail and a future of challenges acceptance both are heroes without equal (respect )

[@annmcnamara8]

Two beautiful amazing strong couple with a love for each other forever