Hi everyone, my name is Gorkem, and I’m a close friend and coworker of Hannah. Hannah is an EMT-B for Twin City Ambulance who recently completed her Advanced EMT training. She is the kind of person who shows up for others on their worst days: calm, compassionate, and always willing to help.

On December 26th, Hannah was on duty with a fellow EMT when they noticed a vehicle that had gone into a ditch on the I-290 near the Niagara Falls Blvd exit. Without hesitation, Hannah and her partner stopped to help and check on the people inside the car. While they were helping the occupants, Hannah was tragically struck by a second vehicle that also lost control and left the roadway in the same manner. Her leg became trapped beneath the vehicle, and she was carefully extricated by the fire department before being transported for emergency care.

Hannah was rushed to Erie County Medical Center by the Town of Tonawanda paramedics alongside fellow Twin City Ambulance providers. Upon arrival to ECMC, she underwent extensive scans and testing to assess the full extent of her injuries.

Hannah underwent surgery for her injuries. She is stable now, but her recovery will be a long and difficult road. The next phase involves healing and rehabilitation: physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and the day-to-day challenges that come regarding mobility and pain. Anyone who has been through a major injury knows that the hardest part often comes after the hospital - the slow process of rebuilding strength, regaining independence, and navigating the emotional toll that follows a traumatic event.

If you know Hannah, you know she’s the definition of loving. She’s kind, thoughtful, and always checks in on the people around her. She’s very close with her family, and she absolutely loves her dog, Ollie. She loves the Buffalo Bills and playing basketball. She’s also incredibly hardworking and resilient - she’s always went the extra step for the people in her life, and put in immense effort to achieve everything she has.

This GoFundMe was created so Hannah and her family don’t have to carry that weight alone. The medical and recovery-related expenses can be significant, and being out of work while trying to recover can make everything feel even more uncertain. We’re hoping to raise funds to help with medical bills, rehabilitation and therapy, prescriptions, and basic living expenses while Hannah focuses on healing. More than anything, this fundraiser is a way for all of us to show up for Hannah the way she has always shown up for others - so she can feel supported, protected, and cared for during a hard season of her life.

If you’re able to donate, any amount truly helps. If donating isn’t possible right now, sharing this fundraiser and keeping Hannah in your thoughts is just as meaningful.

Hannah may not call herself a hero, but to WNY, she is one.