At just 24 years old, Turia Pitt had everything to look forward to.

She was an accomplished athlete, a mining engineer, and a young woman who loved adventure. She also had a devoted partner, Michael Hoskin, with whom she imagined building a future.

But in September 2011, her life changed in a matter of minutes.

While competing in a 100-kilometre ultramarathon, Turia became trapped in a rapidly spreading grassfire.

She suffered catastrophic burns covering 65 percent of her body.

Doctors feared she might not survive.

After being evacuated to hospital, Turia faced a medically induced coma, numerous surgeries, and an incredibly difficult road to recovery.

Her appearance and physical abilities were permanently changed.

For Michael, the woman he loved was suddenly fighting for her life.

Many couples never face a challenge of this magnitude.

But Michael made a decision that would become one of the most moving parts of their story.

And years later, when people learned how he had stood beside Turia through her darkest moments, their extraordinary relationship inspired countless strangers.

Continue below in Part 2