Teen Bike Accident Results in Brain and Spinal Injuries
Gregory Martinez, 16, suffered severe brain and spinal injuries in a bike accident six months ago. At the time of the accident he suffered massive head trauma, a broken neck, a collapsed lung, and spinal and internal injuries. He recently was able to visit his high school in a wheelchair. Greg still resides at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, but comes home for daytime visits on the weekend. Among Greg's friends at his high school who surrounded him in support was Richard Hunt, who was riding on the pegs of the bicycle when it collided with a landscaping trailer towed by a city truck. Richard recovered from a broken arm and other injuries. Neither boy was wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. Greg’s mother is amazed at her son’s progress. He has regained his speech and can move his head, arms and legs. Greg is awaiting placement in a residential facility where he will continue his rehabilitation and his schooling, said his mother. From there, they look forward to eventually bringing him home. Like many brain and spinal injury survivors, the cost of his care will be on the shoulders of his parents. Donations received will help with modifying the home to better accommodate Greg and his injuries.
