In a town as close-knit as Central City, it’s rare for big news to stay quiet for long. But if you haven’t heard yet, one of Gilpin own ,yes, the one with the unforgettable eyebrows…Melissa Fairbanks was recently involved in a severe car accident earlier this month after leaving a house-cleaning job in Conifer, Colorado.

We are incredibly grateful to share that she is expected to survive, but she has only just been moved out of the ICU and remains hospitalized. The road ahead is long and uncertain, and will likely include months in the hospital and possibly time in a recovery or rehabilitation unit.

Her daughter, Maddy has not left her side. Many of you know Maddy from the casinos, and as a Gilpin graduate, she is a familiar face to so many of us. Right now, she simply cannot work because her mom needs her. Melissa is counting on Maddy every single day to advocate for her care, be present for decisions, and help her through the hardest stretch of this journey.

Melissa’s husband, Jay, is also doing everything he can in his own way, working extra hours to keep things going at home during this incredibly difficult time. With Melissa hospitalized and Maddy needed at her side, each of them is carrying this season in the way they’re able.

The purpose of this GoFundMe is very specific: to help Maddy cover household bills, not only her share, but her mom’s as well. So she does not feel pressure to pick up extra shifts or return to work before she’s ready. We want her focus to stay where it belongs: with her mom, Melissa. We also know there will be ongoing needs ahead—medical equipment, home adjustments, travel, and everyday expenses once Melissa is able to leave the hospital—needs that are impossible to plan for right now.

This is going to be a long road, and no one should have to walk it while worrying about how to keep the lights on or what tomorrow will cost. Unfortunately, we are supporting from afar. Melissa does not have much family left. What she does have is Maddy, Jay, and a small circle of long-time friends who love her deeply. 

This GoFundMe is our way of showing up when we can’t physically be there—to help lighten the load so Maddy doesn’t have to carry it alone. If you’re able to help in any way

—by donating, sharing, or simply keeping this family in your thoughts… it would mean more than words can say. This is what small towns do. We take care of our own….. 

With gratitude from afar,

Thank You