PLEASANT GROVE, Utah, Aug. 30, 2016 (Gephardt Daily) — Nearly a month after 4-year-old Brailey Partida from American Fork lost part of her leg in a lawnmower accident, she is home from hospital.
Brailey’s family released a statement Tuesday saying, in part, that the 4-year-old girl still has a “long road ahead but is making great progress,” according to multiple reports.
Preschooler Brailey on Aug. 1 slipped from a riding mower she was on with her grandmother, and fell under the spinning blades, which mangled her right leg and severed the foot.
Neighbors rushed in to help Brailey, and one used a belt as a tourniquet to stop the profuse bleeding.
Doctors at Primary Children’s hospital amputated her right leg under the knee, parents Jacob and Teri Partida said.
Teri Partida urged parents to keep their children away from lawn mowers, and to postpone mowing if there is no other adult around to keep an eye on little ones. Brailey’s grandmother is distraught about the accident, family members said.
A GoFundMe page was set up in Brailey’s name, with the goal of raising $10,000 to help pay medical expenses. It has raised $14,121.
“Our sweet Brailey was badly injured in a tragic accident that took her right leg on August 1, 2016,” the page states. “She will be facing many surgeries and rehabilitation going forward. We would be so grateful for extra funds to help cover medical expenses.
“Brailey is sunshine and happiness to our family. Her smile and laughter are infectious. We are heartbroken that she will struggle due to the injuries she sustained. However, she is a strong little lady who we know will fight to overcome this setback. She is in the hands of great doctors and amazing parents. We look forward to hearing and seeing her laughter and smiles.”
