Hi, my name is Jala Petree, and on Wednesday, March 18, I was involved in a severe accident at Ford Road and Haggerty in Canton, Michigan involving a semi truck and nine people. Many of you may have seen or heard about it. Four heroic officers and 1 pedestrian saved my life by pulling me from the wreckage just seconds before the vehicle was completely consumed in flames and exploded. I came incredibly close to losing my life, and I will never be able to fully express my gratitude for the people who saved me.
Since the accident, I have suffered devastating injuries, including a broken femur, left knee, and nose, dislocated hips, severe head trauma, and second-degree burns from the fire. I have already undergone two extensive surgeries and have remained in the ICU for the last nine days. The road ahead will be long and difficult. Recently, I also became very sick, suffered seizures, and at one point was unresponsive for 15 seconds. It was one of the scariest moments since the accident. Along with the physical pain, I know I will be dealing with emotional trauma from this tragedy for the rest of my life.
Before this happened, I had worked so hard to build an independent life for myself. I was proud to have my own car, my own place, and a job that I truly love in my community coaching and working with young women and kids at Hype Athletics. Being involved in my community has meant everything to me. This tragic event has completely changed the course of my life. It will impact not only the immediate months ahead, but the years to come. As I recover, I am unable to work, and the financial burden of bills, medical expenses, care, and many other obligations is beginning to grow quickly. My family has been doing everything they can to support me financially, physically, and emotionally, and I am beyond grateful for them. But this has placed all of us in a very difficult position as we try to navigate what my new life will look like.
My family and I are deeply grateful to anyone who feels led to support me during this time. Asking for help is not something that comes naturally to us, but right now any support, no matter the amount, would mean more than I can express. Every prayer, kind message, and donation helps lift me during the hardest days of my life. Thank you so much for your love, prayers, and support. Please continue to keep me and my family in your prayers.
Since the accident, I have suffered devastating injuries, including a broken femur, left knee, and nose, dislocated hips, severe head trauma, and second-degree burns from the fire. I have already undergone two extensive surgeries and have remained in the ICU for the last nine days. The road ahead will be long and difficult. Recently, I also became very sick, suffered seizures, and at one point was unresponsive for 15 seconds. It was one of the scariest moments since the accident. Along with the physical pain, I know I will be dealing with emotional trauma from this tragedy for the rest of my life.
Before this happened, I had worked so hard to build an independent life for myself. I was proud to have my own car, my own place, and a job that I truly love in my community coaching and working with young women and kids at Hype Athletics. Being involved in my community has meant everything to me. This tragic event has completely changed the course of my life. It will impact not only the immediate months ahead, but the years to come. As I recover, I am unable to work, and the financial burden of bills, medical expenses, care, and many other obligations is beginning to grow quickly. My family has been doing everything they can to support me financially, physically, and emotionally, and I am beyond grateful for them. But this has placed all of us in a very difficult position as we try to navigate what my new life will look like.
My family and I are deeply grateful to anyone who feels led to support me during this time. Asking for help is not something that comes naturally to us, but right now any support, no matter the amount, would mean more than I can express. Every prayer, kind message, and donation helps lift me during the hardest days of my life. Thank you so much for your love, prayers, and support. Please continue to keep me and my family in your prayers.
Organizer and beneficiary
Lasha Petree
Beneficiary