On Saturday, the Eagles hosted a successful dinner and dance to raise money to help 13-year-old Megan Hutchinson who still lies semi-paralyzed in hospital after being hit by a car while running across a street in Trail on Nov. 16 last year.
“We had a full house. It was definitely a success,” said the Eagles’ Larry Johnson. “We served more than 90 meals, the music was great, and so were donations.”
After a delicious roast beef dinner, guests were treated to an evening of dancing to the grooving tunes of The Best Of.
“They’re awesome, we’ve had them a few times,” said Johnson.
The Eagles’ secretary, Ray van den Nieuwenhof, reported at press time that more than $3,100 had come in after expenses, “for tickets sold for the dinner, for the 50-50 raffle, and from donations. There’s still money coming in from different sources.”
“The money will go directly to the family,” Johnson said. “Her parents have to uproot from here and stay in Vancouver until September or October.”
Megan’s sister attended the dinner and spoke to the gathering to tell them that while her condition is still bad, their has been improvement and hope for recovery. Although Megan can’t move her right side, she can hear people, is aware of her surroundings, and can respond a little, though not with her voice.
After being hit, Megan was rushed to a hospital in Spokane — rather than Kelowna or Vancouver — because of weather conditions across B.C. that day. She was fortunate to not suffer any broken bones, but her head bore the brunt of the impact.
Since that time, Megan’s community has risen to her support with music, internet groups, fundraisers, and prayers.
On Dec. 20, Megan was moved from Spokane’s Sacred Heart Medical Center to Vancouver Children’s Hospital to continue the treatment of her head injuries, including intensive physical and psychological therapy.
Eventually she will be moved to Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children to receive specialized rehabilitation.
People can contribute to the Megan Hutchinson fund at any Kootenay Savings Credit Union.