On Thanksgiving Day in Elgin, Illinois, a day meant for family, gratitude, and togetherness, the Menel family—Tomasz, Ewelina, Kacper, and Aleksandra—was on their way to a family dinner when tragedy struck. While details are limited due to an ongoing investigation, we have been told that another vehicle lost control and collided head-on with the Menel family’s minivan. The impact was severe, leaving all four family members with significant traumatic injuries.

Because of the seriousness of the crash, each member of the Menel family had to be airlifted to trauma hospitals for higher level of emergency care. What should have been a joyful holiday became a fight for survival.

Doctors are still working to fully stabilize each of them before understanding the true extent of their injuries. The Menels face a long road to recovery, including extensive surgeries, treatments, and rehabilitation in the months ahead.

Their Road Ahead

Right now, the focus is on stabilizing Tomasz, Ewelina, Kacper, and Aleksandra. As their conditions allow, they will begin:

    •    Comprehensive medical evaluations

    •    Multiple surgeries and specialized trauma treatments

    •    Long-term rehabilitation and physical therapy

    •    Extended time away from work, school, and daily routines

    •    Emotional healing from the traumatic event

Why Your Support Matters

With four family members seriously injured, the financial hardship is overwhelming. Your generosity will help cover:

    •    Emergency medical and trauma-care expenses

    •    Airlift and hospital costs

    •    Surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term therapies

    •    Medications and medical equipment

    •    Lost income as Tomasz and Ewelina focus on healing

    •    Childcare, transportation, and essential daily needs

Every donation—big or small—makes a meaningful difference. If you cannot donate, sharing this fundraiser is equally helpful.

A Message of Gratitude

The Menel family is deeply grateful for the prayers, support, and kindness they’ve already received. As this situation continues to unfold, your compassion provides strength and hope during an unimaginably difficult time.

Because this is an active investigation, not all details can be shared at this time. However, we will continue to keep everyone updated as more information becomes available and as the family progresses through their recovery.

How You Can Help

Donate if you’re able

Share this GoFundMe widely

Leave supportive messages for Tomasz, Ewelina, Kacper, and Aleksandra

Thank you for standing with the Menel family during this heartbreaking and life-changing time. Your support means more than words can express. ❤️