By Melissa Macintosh-Young, Staff Reporter
The Bruderheim community is once again showing the power of neighbours helping neighbours as support continues to grow for the O’Connell family following a devastating accident that has left husband and father Karl O’Connell with life-altering burn injuries.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Karl, his wife Kennedy, and their five children as they navigate the months ahead.
According to the fundraiser, Karl was seriously injured in an accident at the family’s home on Thursday evening.
Bruderheim Fire Services were the first to respond, and due to the severity of his injuries, STARS Air Ambulance transported him to the University of Alberta Hospital, where he is receiving specialized treatment in the burn unit.
Doctors expect Karl’s recovery to be a lengthy one. While some of his injuries are anticipated to heal over the coming weeks, severe burns to his legs will require extensive treatment, including skin graft surgery. He is expected to remain hospitalized for an extended period while his medical team determines the best course of treatment.
Karl, a heavy-duty equipment operator in his 30s, has always worked hard to provide for his family. Although disability benefits and other supports are being arranged, the family is already facing significant financial challenges as Karl is unable to work.
Kennedy has remained by her husband’s side while also caring for their five children and managing the responsibilities of everyday family life.
Funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will help cover household expenses while Karl recovers, travel and fuel costs, hospital parking, meals during long days at the hospital, school-related expenses, and the cost of bringing Karl’s mother from Nova Scotia to Alberta to support the family during this difficult time.
As of Wednesday, the fundraiser had raised over $4,000 toward its $12,000 goal.
Organizers say every donation, message of encouragement, and prayer helps remind the O’Connell family that they are surrounded by a caring community as Karl begins the long journey toward healing and recovery.
Read this and much more in the July 15 edition of The Lamont Leader!
