Donate to help Nick Zehnder's medical expenses

On Friday, December 2, 2022, I witnessed an accident that led me to run into the middle of a busy intersection at 7:50 in the morning during rush hour traffic, leaving my car parked and unattended at a light with my door wide open.

You often hear about horrific accidents but never imagine yourself being a victim of seeing them firsthand. That was me until recently.

I had just dropped my youngest son off at school and changed my typical route. Making a left onto Bloomfield Ave. during that hour is the difference between arriving to work late or on time. Instead, I chose the alternate way, which would be regulated by a stoplight, making my left turn significantly easier. Little did I know a lot of lives would be impacted in those next 90 seconds.

To my left, a middle school aged boy, Nick, was patiently waiting on the busy corner to cross the main boulevard. The light was turning yellow, and cars coming up Bloomfield Ave towards Montclair were coming to a stop; at least that's what everyone assumed was happening. As the light turned red, Nick followed the pedestrian sign on the far side of the crosswalk and bolted off the corner. An oncoming car, blinded by the morning sun, simply never stopped. Instead, the vehicle continued forward, striking Nick on his left side. I watched the collision take place; it was as if time had slowed down and I could only see the accident in slow motion. I've recalled the event too many times to count, and part of me wonders if I had time to react sooner. Physics tells me no, but my recalling of the event tells me yes.

I ran out of my car to meet Nick on the other side of the intersection and three others joined me. One who called 911, one who identified him and another who stood close by, ensuring traffic stood still. I remember the intimate details, everything between the collision and the landing. My first reaction was to find his phone to contact a parent. I had just left my house, kissed my oldest on the forehead, and dropped my youngest off safely inside his school.

Upon finding his phone, I hovered it over his face to unlock it. He cried out for his dad repeatedly, which was the phone call I decided to make. I never want to be on either end of that phone call again.

His father, three members from our local police department and an ambulance showed up within minutes.

Many of us stood there in utter disbelief as to what we had just witnessed. Both heartbroken and horrified. Nick was eventually taken to a nearby hospital (omitting details for privacy). I've since learned, from speaking with his father, that he suffered a broken shoulder and had to undergo surgery for breaking two of the three bones in his left leg.

This GoFundMe has been implemented to help the Zehnders with Nick's medical expenses, from x-rays to surgery to recovery. As a small community, we have been capable of incredible things. Today, I ask that we do it again. Donations of any amount will positively impact Nick's recovery and the stress placed on this family, especially during the holiday season. I ask that if you can't donate yourselves, you share this page and share his story. Please help spread the word, any help is greatly appreciated.