On 2/21/2026, our parents, Anne and Dave Lewis, were involved in a serious car accident near Knob Noster, Missouri. They were struck by an intoxicated and uninsured driver, resulting in significant injuries.
Ironically, they had taken Highway 50 as a detour to avoid Highway 70. Since his brain surgery last year, our dad has been a more cautious and nervous driver and believed this was the safer choice.
Mom was life-flighted to the University of Missouri Hospital and remains in the ICU. The car rolled multiple times, and she sustained numerous fractures (including ribs, clavicle, neck, and wrist) along with a serious lung injury. She is currently on a ventilator and sedated so her body can rest and heal. Doctors are hopeful, but her recovery will be long and will include an extended hospital stay followed by skilled nursing and rehabilitation care.
Dave’s injuries were less severe, and he has been discharged from the hospital. (Which he may regret, as Traci and I have now taken over and are doing our best to boss him around while Mom recovers.)
On the morning of the accident, they were on their way to Ashland to help a family member by pet-sitting. It will surprise no one that Mom had packed her sewing machine and was looking forward to spending the time working on a quilt. She will likely be more heartbroken about the destroyed sewing machine than the totaled car.
Our parents are deeply loved by their community and church family. The outpouring of prayers, messages, and support has been an incredible comfort and a reflection of the lives they’ve lived. They are truly the kind of people who show up for others without hesitation.
If you feel moved to help, any support is deeply appreciated. The financial impact of this accident will be substantial. The road ahead includes ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and many unexpected expenses.
Thank you for supporting our family during this incredibly difficult season. Your kindness, prayers, and encouragement mean more to our family than we can express. We are still searching for their beloved dog, Buddy, who went missing after the accident. Thank you to everyone who has helped look for him.