When you see a need, you fill it. That’s why MacKenzie Welberg, an eighth-grader at Wilsonville’s Wood Middle School, dreamed up the idea of the 3K Race for Recovery, a fundraiser to benefit two friends who were hit by a car when she was walking with them in Wilsonville on Aug. 7.
Kylie Fretwell and Shaylee Hicks, both eighth-graders at Rosemont Ridge Middle School in West Linn, suffered severe brain injuries and were rushed to OHSU Hospital, where they underwent surgery to reduce the swelling. The following months have been filled with hospital care, a second surgery, and ongoing outpatient therapy to help the girls get back to full healing. Given the extent of the injuries, their recovery has been impressive, and they each attend classes part time.
Welberg wanted to help raise money to help defray the huge hospital bills, and conceived of the event, which was held Oct. 30 during school hours. She developed a PowerPoint which she presented to each class to explain the event, spent hours stapling pledge packets and information to send home, and coordinated with the principal and wellness teachers to ensure a smooth event.
Altogether, her efforts have raised $6,000 with additional money still coming in.
Tyler Glenn Joos, the driver of the cars who hit the girls, was booked into the Clackamas County Jail on suspicion of third-degree assault, fourth-degree assault and driving under the influence of intoxicants. He was released after posting bail and scheduled for a Dec. 10 court appearance.
The injured girls were rushed to OHSU
Doernbecher Children's Hospital, where they spent several days.
“It could have been me,” Welberg said, adding that the many hours she spent on event coordination was nothing compared to what her friends have been through. “I just wanted to do something to help.”
Donations are still being accepted at 7146 SW Iron Horse St., Wilsonville 97070.
-- Cathie Ericson