While his son was in intensive care, he and his wife, Becs Cameron, felt desperate and helpless, he said.
''There was nothing we could do for Cameron to make things better. We were camped by his bedside holding his hand and hugging him, telling him we loved him and that we weren't going to accept anything else apart from him coming through this.''
The emotional and financial drain on the family was huge and Mr Leonard stayed in Western Australia for three months, his wife returning to Mosgiel to run the family home.
''We would not have been able to do this without the generosity and amazing support shown from our families, friends and community.''
A trust set up in his son's name and a fundraising event organised by his sister-in-law, Di Leonard, allowed the family to concentrate on what was important - being there for Cameron.
''We are so grateful to all the people that stood up for us - we just can't thank them enough. It is very humbling to think that people would do this for us and for Cameron. We are lucky to be part of this community,'' Mr Leonard said.
His son's recovery was astonishing doctors, he said.
''Apart from nerve damage to the right side of his face and the loss of hearing in his right ear - which we are hopeful will improve with further treatment and time - he will be able to lead a normal life.''
His son kept his great sense of humour and determination, which played a big part in his recovery, he said.
''He has never complained or got down about what happened. He just kept asking what he had to do to get better.''
Cameron returned to Australia about a fortnight ago for further medical treatment.
He was booked in for surgery next Wednesday to investigate the nerve damage causing paralysis and to rebuild his eardrum.
''We are very blessed and lucky to have him still with us,'' Mr Leonard said.
