My name is Cherie, and I am Cullen’s mother. On April 17, 2025, my son Cullen and his girlfriend Lilly were in a devastating accident. Cullen did not survive, and Lilly suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the C4 level. Doctors initially told us that Lilly would not regain movement below her neck and would be quadriplegic. Against the odds, she has regained some movement and is now considered tetraplegic, but her journey is far from over.

Lilly is currently receiving care at QLI Nebraska, a state-of-the-art spinal cord injury treatment facility. Thanks to the incredible generosity of friends, family, and our community, we have been able to keep her there through the end of December. However, as the new year approaches, our funds are depleted. Insurance will renew on January 1 and cover her stay through February, but we are responsible for a co-pay for those two months, which must be paid in advance to ensure she can continue her treatment.

Lilly has made remarkable progress, and with continued therapy and access to specialized equipment like the Arc-Ex and the Exoskeleton, she has hope of regaining even more independence—perhaps even the ability to care for herself in ways we once thought impossible. Just recently she has reported feeling in her right thumb!

Cullen would want nothing more than for Lilly to have the chance to live a full and independent life. Please consider donating to support Lilly’s recovery and help her continue this journey. Your kindness and support mean the world to us.

(Nebraska is a private pay or commercial insurance and state insurance for Lilly or state funding is not an option for this specific center)