Support Carson & Erik's Recovery Journey

Help Support Carson Van Wagner & Erik Ortega After Tragic Accident

On April 24, 2025, two bright, kind-hearted 16-year-old boys from Van Buren, Missouri — Carson Van Wagner and Erik Ortega — were critically injured in a horrific car accident on Highway 60 near Poplar Bluff.

Their vehicle suddenly lost control, veered off the road, and rolled multiple times. What caused the accident remains unknown — but what followed has changed the lives of two families, and our entire town, forever.

Carson’s Story

Carson, who was driving, was ejected from the vehicle and pinned underneath it.

Carson was unresponsive at the scene. First responders performed emergency intubation, which helped save his life before rushing him to a small nearby hospital. From there, he was transferred by ambulance to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis — an almost 3-hour drive — as airlifts were not immediately available that day.

Along the way, his ambulance had to stop multiple times for emergency blood transfusions to stabilize him.

Carson was placed in a medically induced coma for nearly a month due to extensive traumatic brain injuries. In the weeks that followed, he underwent five major surgeries, including the removal of a portion of his skull to relieve swelling. That piece will be surgically replaced in the future. He is still expected to undergo at least two more surgeries.

Carson is now being cared for at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital in Maryland Heights. Though he remains heavily sedated, he has begun to show hopeful signs — reacting to therapies, and demonstrating awareness. He cannot yet walk or speak, but he can see and hear, and his team remains cautiously optimistic.

Erik’s Story

Erik, Carson’s close friend and passenger, was trapped inside the vehicle. He suffered a broken neck and a severe spinal cord injury. He was later transferred to Cardinal Glennon, where he underwent surgery to stabilize the spine, but was diagnosed with paralysis from the chest down.

Despite the grim prognosis, Erik has shown incredible strength and spirit. Through tireless therapy, he has regained partial feeling in his arms and upper body, though he has no movement in his hands or wrists. He is now able to control a motorized wheelchair, giving him a newfound sense of independence. Like Carson, he is also receiving care and rehabilitation at Ranken Jordan.

How You Can Help

Both boys face a long, uncertain journey ahead. Their families are committed to helping them recover as fully as possible — but the emotional, physical, and financial toll is overwhelming.

They will need:

• Custom motorized wheelchairs ($13,000+ each)

• Wheelchair-accessible vehicles

• Home modifications for accessibility (ramps, roll-in showers, widened doorways, restructured bathrooms, etc.)

• Ongoing physical and occupational therapy

• Specialized medical equipment

• Temporary housing, food, and income support while both families remain in St. Louis full-time

All proceeds from this fundraiser will be split equally between the Van Wagner and Ortega families.

A Small Town With a Big Heart

Van Buren, Missouri, has a population of just 800 — but this tight-knit community has wrapped both families in love and support since the day of the accident. Neighbors have organized prayer vigils, meal trains, fundraisers, and more. But the size of the town limits the financial resources available to sustain these boys’ long-term care needs.

Now, we’re reaching beyond our small town to ask for your help.

Other Ways to Help

In addition to financial donations, we are also seeking:

• Volunteers for construction and remodeling

• Donations of building materials or professional services (carpenters, plumbers, electricians, etc.)

Please contact:

Britta Nord

*owner of this campaign

Britta is Carson’s great aunt and has been closely involved in both families’ support. Carson and her son were raised like brothers, and Erik’s family is deeply connected to them as well.

Please Share & Support

Carson and Erik are resilient, faith-filled young men with a long road ahead — one that no teenager should have to walk. But with your help, we can give them the tools, care, and hope they need to rebuild their futures.

Please donate if you’re able, and share this page to help us reach others who may be moved to help. Every dollar and every share makes a real difference.

Thank you for your prayers, your compassion, and your generosity.

#CarsonStrong #ErikStrong #VanBurenStrong