An elderly couple from Co Dublin are still hospitalised in the United States after suffering serious injuries in a road accident while visiting their grandchildren, reports The Mirror.
The pair were hit by an SUV as they attempted to cross Park Avenue in Worcester, Massachusetts, on Thursday, September 25.
Emergency services treated the couple at the scene before transporting them to hospital in serious condition. Liam, a former school principal, is recovering after undergoing several hip operations, while his wife Kathleen, a retired speech and drama teacher, remains critically ill in the hospital’s intensive care unit, reports The Mirror.
Their family said the couple had only just arrived in the US the evening before the incident, visiting their son, his wife, and their grandchildren who live in Worcester.
Three of the Ryders’ daughters have since travelled from Ireland to the US to be with their parents and offer support, reports The Mirror.
The couple are not covered by US health insurance, which has added to the difficulties they face. Liam’s niece, Una, has now created a GoFundMe campaign to help raise funds for their medical bills, travel costs, and long-term care needs.
A message posted on the fundraising site reads: “Hi, my name is Una and I’m fundraising on behalf of my dad’s brother, Liam and his wife Kathleen. Whilst recently in the US, visiting family, they were struck down by a vehicle that ran a red light. This has resulted in severe injuries and possibly life-changing consequences. As well as assisting with medical and other expenses, it is likely that they will need ongoing care. On behalf of Liam and Kathleen and their wider family, we would welcome any support that you can offer, to help with what promises to be a long road ahead. All donations no matter how small will be greatly appreciated,” reports The Mirror.
As of now, the GoFundMe page has collected over €40,000 in donations. Those wishing to contribute can visit the fundraising page online.
Media in the US report that the teenage driver of the SUV involved has had his licence suspended and will be called to court to face charges stemming from the crash.
The 17-yr-old is expected to be summoned for driving to endanger, failure to yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk, running a red light, and speeding, reports The Mirror.
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