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Ethan's Hit & Run Trauma Recovery

Early in the morning Nov 21, Ethan Zimmerman was tragically run over by a construction truck, as he was in a crosswalk returning to Gallaudet University, outside Wendy's in Washington DC. He was crushed by the dual wheels of a dump truck, receiving multiple fractures and extensive trauma injuries. He actually died a few times, and due to the extensie brain trauma, doctors were considering removing him from life-support. After 2 weeks of surgeries and heroic medical interventions, and much prayer,  he regained consciousness, but was still suffering the effects of severe brain trauma. He remains in a body that dosent work like it did before the accident. His pelvis and right leg were severly crushed and circulation could only be restored with extensive vacular re-routing. His pelvis and broken bones finally have healed with the help of external fixation holding his pelvis together and lots of titanium restoring his legs.  After several more months of recovery in his hospital bed, he was able to be released from the hospital to continue his recovery at home. Of course we had no home in DC so we have now established our own specialized recovery center in the Nation's Capital.

Ethan was born in Kiribati and grew up on Guam. His parents have been international development missionaries in the Pacific Islands all his life, and continue their work as counselors. They established Oasis Empowerment Center, a faith-based ministry is working to support victims of human trafficking and promoting recovery from abuse and addiction. Ethan, and all the Zimmerman children, have been a integral part of the restoration of so many clients lives as an extended family bringing healing and unconditional love. 

Ethan Zimmerman had been studying education and sign language at Gallaudet University, a school committed to serving individuals with disabilities. In June, Ethan served as an intern with Guam's Manha Project, an annual day camp for Deaf and hard of hearing children working to increase language competency and to promote resilience.

Medical costs today are simply staggering and Doctors are saying the road to his recovery will be a very long journey. Ethan's mother, Allison, has had to relocate to DC to be able to support the recovery process. Rob continues to leard the ministry and development work in Guam. Your support is helping with the many new costs that have been incurred in order to support Ethan's trauma recovery.  

Ethan enjoyed an active lifestyle, hiking the hills and exploring the waterfalls of Guam. His blog has been a source of encouragement to many people struggling with identity issues. Thank you for your support of Ethan now in his own struggle, facing new challenges now in his own life. With God all things are possible!

Prayers have allowed us to see miracles. On Resurrection Sunday, Ethan began to walk again as he walked up the asile to receive communion. Today he continues to grow stronger and regain skills and abilities.

If all this was not enough, the driver responsible for Ethan's tragedy, has again run over another pedestrian in July 2017.  We continue to pray for justice and healing for those who have suffered similar tragedies. Thank you for investing in restoration for Ethan and our family!
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Donations 

  • Thomas Conena
    • $200 
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer

Rob Zimmerman
Organizer
Washington D.C., DC
Elim Pacific Ministries
 
Registered nonprofit
Donations are typically 100% tax deductible in the US.

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