Mid Ulster teenager seriously injured in crash faces obstacles with incredible courage and strength
A fundraiser for a Mid Ulster teenager seriously injured in a car crash has raised more than £60,000 within a few days of being launched.
Eighteen-year-old Kerri sustained a spinal cord injury in the crash in February.
A GoFundMe was set up by her employer CRF Oil Ltd, Coagh, to help support Kerri and her family during “an incredibly difficult time.”
The teenager’s life changed in an instant after being involved in the crash that resulted in a devastating spinal cord injury. Her C7 vertebra was severely damaged, and she underwent emergency spinal surgery.
Since then, she has spent the past four months in hospital, facing challenges no young person should ever have to endure.
According to the GoFundMe, Kerri has currently lost movement from the chest down and is also dealing with ongoing complications affecting her body, along with constant pain and discomfort.
"Every day brings new obstacles, yet she continues to face them with incredible courage and strength,” it reads.
"Before the accident, Kerri was full of life. She was in her final year of school, playing football for Ballinderry Shamrocks, and looking forward to finishing her exams, going to university, and making memories with her friends.
"She had plans for concerts, holidays, and all the exciting moments that come with being 18. She’s known for her energy, kindness, and sense of humour — always the one to lift the mood and make people laugh."
It states that Kerri continues to show remarkable resilience facing each day with facing each day with bravery and determination that inspires everyone around her.
"As Kerri prepares to return home, life will look very different. She will need ongoing care, intensive rehabilitation, and major adjustments to her home to help her manage everyday tasks and regain as much independence as possible.”
The funding will help support ongoing rehabilitation and physiotherapy; essential medical equipment and assistive technology; home adaptations to make daily life accessible, and in-home care and long-term recovery support.”
The GoFundMe added “The reality is that the level of care and equipment needed for this type of injury comes at a significant cost. We want to make sure Kerri has access to every possible support as she begins to rebuild her life.”
The link to the GoFundMe page can be found here