Nearly $50K raised to assist Elijah Chinnery
Virgin Islanders at home and abroad have once again shown they are not afraid to support their own — especially when a life depends on it.
Residents have raised some $44,000 on the crowd-funding website, GoFundMe, to cover medical expenses for young Elijah Chinnery who sustained serious spinal injuries after an accident at the beach some time last week. The organisers are aiming to raise some $50,000 for the young man who hails from Jost Van Dyke.
According to the information on the GoFundMe page, the young man is facing paralysis after sustaining injuries to the vertebrae in his neck. The organisers say there is a 40/60 chance that he may walk again.
They are appealing for the public’s assistance as Elijah had to be flown to the United States for medical care due to the extent of his injuries.
One update on the GoFundMe page shows young Elijah recovering at hospital. It said the young man endured 1.5 hours of surgery to remove the fragmented bones from his neck. It also said the medical professionals will go in from the front of the neck to remove the bones in the back.
“An implant will be put in and also a plate with screws to keep it in place. The damage to the spine cannot be reversed, however, with extensive therapy and baby steps, he will be on the road to recovery. This will determine whether he will walk again. He is a fighter, so he will walk again,” the organisers shared.
Though the GoFundMe page was created fewer than five days ago, residents have not only shown monetary support but there is an outpouring of love and well wishes being sent to young Elijah and his family.
Though they are close to meeting the initial target of $50,000, the public’s assistance and support is still needed for Elijah, who will have a unique journey to recovery.
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See where that $250,000 wasted by the Premier would’ve come in handy now?
Many more contributors than just residents.
Who is the blasted retarded child who jumped recklessly on top of the boy smh. Slow arse child.
Elsewhere that young man would have had to answer some questions because that was a reckless act. I have been in the beach and watch young men do some stupid things.
Please I don’t think the child know this would happen. I too am wondering, but its an accident, please, they other child might be traumatize too by this. I have a 14 year old and I could just imagine the feelings but lord?? I also hope the community keep helping the family. There should now be public awareness of safety to children like if you jump in shallow water or try to do back flip in shallow water you can be injured. etc etc. Its like some children might say to a non swimmer jump I will catch you. this is dangerous they kids need to know this.
If you can, please give:
https://gofund.me/13d41356
In the real world of accountability yesirree there would have been criminal charges and a subsequent lawsuit. Assets of the parents of the reckless teenager who caused the injury would be targeted.The parents are fully financially responsible for medical bills and disability of the Chinnery chap.
Granfadder Ivan have plenty money and properties on Jost. He can mortgage properties or release the cash. Beggin’ the people not necessary
You mus stay Anonymous because you an a**. What you know bout what Grandfather got financially. FOr all you know he owe the bank and all. We must not look at what a person has. Medical bills is not an easy thing. Grandfather may assist to some extent but there is so much more. You are just a hater and I pray no one for you get sick.