Australian MP Helen Haines loses both legs in car-ramming attack as suspect appears in court

An update from the husband of Australian politician Helen Haynes, who was hit by a car in what police are describing as a targeted attack. What took place on Monday was a horrendous incident and it's, as you know, caused Helen significant injuries. As a result of that, Helen's left leg was amputated on Monday. We had been hoping that her right leg would be saved, but as of this afternoon or this morning, the surgeons had to also remove her right leg. The incident happened outside Haynes' electorate office on Monday. Witnesses say a man drove his car into her, reversed, and then rammed into her again. The driver, 43-year-old Brendan Nugent, is facing three charges, including intentionally causing serious injury. A motive is yet to be determined. But the good news in all this is Helen is alive and she's stable. That is the most important thing for our family. Two most important parts of Helen for us as a family, are her heart and her mind. The incident has renewed concern about the increase in threats against politicians in Australia. Authorities say almost one person is being charged every week for targeting members of parliament or high office holders. Haynes, whose championed causes, including access to health care in rural areas, remains in critical condition. Her family says the road to recovery will be long and difficult, but that they know she's a fighter. Julie Dager, Al Jazeera.