Marlena’s Medical Fund

On the morning of September 12, 2017, Marlena was on her way to work at the UPS Distribution Center in Montgomery, Alabama, as she had done most mornings for the past year. While on her way, Marlena saw an animal crossing the road and, being the animal lover she is, slammed onto her breaks to avoid hitting it. Her car hydroplaned sending it into a junked semi-trailer on the side of the road. Malena was taken to Baptist South Hospital where she was stabilized and then transferred to Shepherd Spinal Rehabilitation Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, where she continues to receive treatment. 

Marlena has an incomplete fracture of the C-5 and C-7 vertebrae. She has complete sensation, but is unable to move her legs. Some movement is returning to her toes and ankles, and fine motor movement in her hands is also returning. Marlena is scheduled to be discharged on January 17, 2018.

With injuries such as Marlena's, it is difficult to give an accurate prognosis. Her doctors report that it will take a year to a year and a half before a more definitive prognosis can be made. Marlena will be in a wheelchair after discharge and will need to continue with physical therapy and occupational therapy. In addition, several renovations to her parent’s home need to be made to accommodate her wheelchair. At the time of the accident, Marlena was only a week away from being vested at the UPS Distribution Center, which would have allotted her long/short term disability and insurance. Her parent's insurance helps, but does not cover all of her expenses. Her parents estimate costs of over $50,000 for medical care and making their home wheelchair accessible.

Any and all donations will help to support Marlena and her family through this difficult time and are very much appreciated. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and donations.