Hope for Limbs: Rebuilding After Boating Accident

Following a strenuous and frustrating day dedicated to repairing engine related issues on a houseboat, Brent Limb and his family eagerly packed their belongings, preparing to head back to their vehicles at Bullfrog Marina. As the day transitioned into a nearly moonless night during their journey, the once manageable waters became an indiscernible blur of darkness. Struggling to distinguish between land and water, their attempts to navigate safely were in vain when an unforeseen tragedy unfolded.

Abruptly and with astonishing speed, a rocky peninsula jutted out into the water, catching them off guard. The impact was devastating as the boat collided forcefully with the unyielding rock formation, crushing it.

Nora, seated at the pilot seat facing the boat's rear, bore the brunt of the collision's force. The violent impact sent her head snapping backward, resulting in the fracturing of three vertebrae in her neck, as well as five vertebrae in her spine. Adding to her injuries were four cracked ribs and a deep scalp laceration that caused significant blood loss, necessitating a blood transfusion and the closure of the wound with 47 staples. Furthermore, she suffered a severe concussion and minor brain bleeding leading to her immediate evacuation via life flight as soon as responders reached the scene.

The collision propelled Brent into the unforgiving fiberglass frame of the boat, while tools previously resting in the boat's center crashed into him from behind, entrapping him amidst the wreckage. His injuries included six fractured ribs, a dislocated sternum, and a collapsed lung that required the insertion of a chest tube to inflate and heal the compromised lung.

Ryan's head collided forcefully with the windshield, resulting in a substantial forehead laceration and multiple abrasions on his face. The severity of his injuries warranted the application of 62 stitches across his forehead, with additional stitches required for his eyelid and nose tip.

After Brent and Ryan’s injuries were assessed, they were also life flighted.

Elijah, positioned toward the rear of the boat, also suffered a head injury during the impact, leading to a significant concussion.

Remarkably, Jenika emerged with only a few minor bruises from the accident and immediately sprang into action to provide assistance during the chaotic aftermath.

At this time, it is unknown when Nora will be released from the hospital with how severe and life changing her injuries are.

During this period, the Limb family is earnestly seeking prayers and assistance. They embody an outlook that focuses on blessings and miracles, even amidst adversity. Within this heart-wrenching tragedy, they've already recognized numerous instances of divine intervention.

We wish to recognize and thank all those involved in the rescue efforts, especially Mark and Kevin who rushed to the wreckage and provided life saving support. Without their intervention, Nora would have likely died at the scene.

Nevertheless, an overwhelming physical and financial uphill battle lies ahead. Brent, being a self-employed contract worker, faces a painstaking path to recovery alongside his family. The responsibility of tending to his own injuries, as well as his wife's, coupled with the weight of medical expenses and the income loss during their recuperation, is considerable.

We implore you to open your hearts and extend your support if you are able. This family has dedicated their lives to quietly serving others, generously sharing their time, skills, and resources. Countless individuals have been blessed by their benevolence.

Kindly spread the word as we aim to envelop them in our collective, affectionate love and support.

For those interested in a full account of the events that transpired, updates will be coming soon.