CAROLYN GRANT
The family of Richard Bay is raising funds to get him back to Canada after a motorcycle accident has left him hospitalized in Honduras, and facing a long recovery.
Sister Lisa Bay says Richard was hit by a bus while riding a motorbike in Honduras.
"The bus driver fled the scene, but thankfully Richard has made some wonderful friends who are looking out for him," Lisa said. "He was taken by a private air ambulance to a hospital equipped to handle his surgeries.
"To date, Richard has had four surgeries. He shattered his right leg, tibia, fibula, and femur. He broke his hand and injured his shoulder. He also lost a chunk of his calf and has had skin grafts."
Lisa said family members, including Richard's dad, flew down to Honduras last Friday to deal with immediate medical bills and assess what has to be done.
"It has been determined that Richard will have a one to two year recovery, and that we need to get him back to Canada," Lisa said.
However, getting back to Canada is not going to be as simple as hopping on an airplane.
"Richard will have to travel back with specialized medical transport, and we believe the cost to be upwards of $20,000," Lisa said.
Richard did have travel insurance but it ran out before his accident, so the family has to find another way to raise the required funds to get him home.
"Once we get him to Canada, we feel like things will become much more manageable," said Lisa.
In the meantime, she says her brother's spirits are good as always.
"Those of you who know Richard will be happy to know he is still smiling and laughing. He is making jokes with the nurses, making friends as always."
But the whole family will feel much better once that smiling face is home.
A fundraiser has been set up online at youcaring.com.
The link is http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/help-get-richard-home-/185817
The fundraiser went live Wednesday and already over $1,000 has been raised.
The Bay family is grateful for any assistance.
"We promise to pay it forward," Lisa said.