The West's medical expense fundraiser

The West’s life changed dramatically on the evening of Friday, December 8th. Stratton West is a devoted husband to Briana West and father of three who serves his community as a member of the Brunswick Fire Department. Each year, as is tradition, the Brunswick Fire Department hosts an end of the year gathering for department members and their families. Stratton and his three kids were on the way to this event when they were struck head-on by a vehicle from on-coming traffic. Thankfully, Briana was not involved in the incident as she was at work. Stratton suffered a fractured knee, his stepson suffered injuries related to the deployment of the airbags, and his two girls, ages 3 and 4, both suffered severe head trauma despite being buckled in their car-seats and were unresponsive at the scene. Due to the severity of the injuries, all children were life-flighted to the nearest trauma centers; one to Savannah Georgia and the others to Jacksonville Florida. Stratton and his two girls all required emergency surgery. Stratton and his stepson have since been released from the hospital after receiving the needed medical care while his two girls remain in critical condition in two separate locations. Neither of the girls have regained consciousness but they continue to trend upwards. While all are thankful to be alive, it is very clear that there is a long road ahead to recovery. It is unknown at this time the extent of the rehabilitation that will be necessary for the girls, and only time will tell. Unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries come with a host of complications and unknowns. They are just in the beginning stages of the complex process that is insurance and health-care coverage, but it is estimated that their out-of-pocket expenses could total anywhere between $250,000 to $500,000. Our goal, as friends of the family, is to relieve as much of the financial hardship and anxiety as possible while they focus on the care of their loved ones. Stratton and Briana are extremely thankful for the outpouring of support, thoughts, and prayers and ask that you hold your loved ones a little tighter next time you have the chance.