Hi, My name is Janet, I am the aunt of Ben Szymanski, who earlier this month was involved in a motorcycle vs SUV accident. He had to be airlifted to a trauma 1 hospital in Illinois.

Just weeks ago we were celebrating his 19th birthday, now he is in a medically sedated state so his body and brain don't have to work too hard. He has bleeding on his frontal lobe and needed a procedure done to relieve the pressure on his brain and monitor swelling. His pelvic bone was broken which required 1 surgery to repair and a second surgery to stop the internal bleeding that was caused due to the break. He also suffered from a broken wrist, broken nose, broken shoulder blade, possible broken ankle, ear, broken ribs, and a broken jaw that required surgery and his jaw wired shut. Unfortunately, thats just a few of the many issues he's suffered from this accident. In the first week alone he has had to endure 5 surgeries and countless scans and procedures.

He had big plans for his future. He graduated early last year. Started working. Started an apprenticeship and going to classes.

Now all of that is on hold as he fights this battle ahead of him.

His trauma team and the hospital staff are amazing. He is responding well to all of the surgeries so far. However, they have informed his mom, Karen, of a long journey ahead. Months in the hospital, then months in a rehab center.

Karen has been by Ben's side from the moment visiting hours start, til the minute the end every evening. Making the 45 minute drive each way, everyday.

There is no where else she would rather be then by his side.

Unfortunately, life doesn't stop, and this will cause a huge financial strain on her. From hospital bills to daily travel costs, to everyday bills.

Any help or donations would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read Ben's story, and please keep him, his mother, his family, and his doctors in your prayers.