A GoFundMe campaign for Ethan has raised more than $20,000. (GoFundMe photo)
The community and local businesses are going all out in support of a local family facing an uphill battle following a weekend car crash that left an area teen paralyzed.
Ethan MacDonald-Dick, 17, suffered life-altering injuries when his pickup truck left the roadway and rolled over in the early morning hours of Saturday, Aug. 17.
According to a GoFundMe campaign that has already raised more than $20,000, the crash left the teen with numerous internal injuries and also severed his spine, leaving him paralyzed.
“Ethan has been a trooper and has made it through a 10-hour operation so far and will be in the hospital for a very long time,” reads the campaign plea. “Ethan is currently still in an induced coma, so he isn’t even aware of the damage that has been done to his body. We are raising money to help Ethan’s parents.”
Ethan, who works at Mansteel, a job his family says he really enjoys, is a student at Bishop Smith Catholic High School. Funds raised will help Ethan and his family in the days ahead.
“Ethan’s parents have been by his side since day one, resulting in loss of wages and more. Their whole house will need to be renovated to accommodate Ethan’s safe return home. Every little bit will help with the renovations, bills and loss of wages. Ethan and his family still have a very long and hard road ahead of them so let’s come together to help them as much as we possibly can.”
Along with the GoFundMe, a number of fundraisers have been launched.
Ashes Restaurant in Pembroke is hosting a unique initiative. Owners have been in touch with Ethan’s family, who provided information about his favourite meals, so beginning today (Thursday) through Sunday, the meals will be featured on the menu as “Ethan’s Favourites.”
“For every Ethan meal purchased, 50 per cent of the proceeds will go directly to his family to support them during this difficult time. We invite you to join us in making a difference. Let’s come together as a community and show Ethan and his family the love and support they need. We look forward to seeing you at Ashes Family Restaurant this week,” reads a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
Lasso Live and BigMike Productions, with help from sponsors including myFM, are hosting a benefit dance Aug. 31. Rhythms of Recovery will feature activities for kids during the day (2-7 p.m.) and a video dance party at night (7 p.m. to 2 p.m.) with all proceeds going to Ethan’s family. Food, raffles, games and more are among the activities.
Maven’s Beauty Collab is launching a raffle for their Renew You Mavens Package. Price will be $5 a ticket or five for $20, all proceeds will go to Ethan’s family. Tickets will be available beginning Aug. 26.
Harvey’s/Swiss Chalet Petawawa also has a donation box set up and is running a fundraiser Aug. 22, as well.
To contribute to the GoFundMe, click here.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)
