Ella is my only child, and seeing her go through this has been the hardest experience of my life. She’s always been independent, willful, and smart—a combination that keeps me on my toes as a parent. She loves volleyball, and it’s been especially tough for her to face the possibility of not being able to play right now. Ella has faced more than her share of challenges, and one of the first things she said after regaining consciousness was how she just can’t ever catch a break. Hearing that broke my heart in a way I can’t describe.

The accident left Ella with a broken lower leg, abdominal injuries, and a broken lower back that has caused paralysis. We don’t know yet what her long-term prospects are, and we’re living in a gray area, hoping for the best. She’s already had five surgeries in a week and is recovering in the pediatric ICU. While insurance will cover much of the medical expenses, there are still significant costs that aren’t covered—out-of-pocket medical bills, possible home modifications, or even the need to move to a more accessible place. I’m not sure what the future holds, but I want to make sure Ella has every opportunity and resource she needs, whether that’s for her immediate care or investing in her future if there are funds left over.

We’re lucky to have a large, supportive family on both sides, and both her mother and I work in the medical field, which has helped us navigate this difficult time. Ella’s care will be excellent thanks to everyone involved, but the financial burden is still overwhelming. I’m not here to judge anyone by how much they donate, and I’m not keeping track of who does or doesn’t contribute. I’m just trying to help my daughter. Thank you to everyone who has reached out with concern, texts, and calls—it means more than I can say.

My machine overlord GoFundMe has instructed me to give an update to those interested. I don’t even know if this is the right area and their AI isn’t going to spruce it up I don’t think so this is all me. Not a whole lot has changed for her. She gets tingles in the legs and some other sensations but no movement which really upsets her. Ella doesn’t realize the journey she’s starting and how difficult it will be. We honestly don’t know what to expect in the end. Just every day we hope something positive happens. I would light fireworks inside of this hospital if I got a simple toe flick (joke!). That is where we are. Some little thing that we never thought was important like a toe flick means the world. Just riding a wave hoping it doesn’t crash in the rocks. She is being transferred to the TCU today but it doesn’t get her any closer to home so she’s pretty non plussed about that. Anyways, I appreciate you all whoever you are. I told you I wasn’t keeping track of who sent what or didn’t send anything at all so I’m just giving a blanket ‘thank you’ to everyone who did donate or are just trying to find other ways to help. It means a lot guys and gals.