LJ Strong - Team Lopes - Help LJ Heal

The moment that everything changed. Click here to read about the tragedy that made national news and changed the Lopes Family forever. 

This GoFundMe campaign was created on behalf of and with the consent of Olivia and Alex Lopes for their son, LJ. Olivia is a Physical Education teacher at William Annin Middle School and coaches both Girls Basketball and Girls Lacrosse at Ridge High School. Alex is the Offensive Coordinator of the Men’s Lacrosse Team at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. They are both incredibly dedicated to their students and athletes and are committed members of the Basking Ridge, Glen Ridge, Keyport and Kean University communities.


Everything changed on Tuesday, January 8th.


LJ was struck by a vehicle, along with his grandmother (59 years old) and cousin (4 years old). All three were walking home after picking LJ’s cousin up from preschool, when a vehicle jumped the curb and hit them from behind. LJ’s grandmother suffered two broken legs, a broken tailbone, and facial reconstructive surgery. His cousin suffered a broken femur, arm and jaw; both are now recovering in rehabilitation facilities. Tragically, LJ (only eight months old), was the most vulnerable and suffered the most extensive and life threatening injuries. His car seat was thrown from the stroller upon impact and recovered from nearby bushes with LJ still strapped into his car seat. He is currently fighting through multiple skull fractures, orbital fractures, severe brain trauma, and a broken leg and is currently having difficulty moving his right arm. LJ remains in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit with extensive injuries and requires around the clock care and treatment.  While Alex has had to return to work, Olivia has not left LJ’s side. The Lopes Family has a difficult road ahead and needs our support.


It is often in times like these that the best of communities are often revealed. Team Lopes needs your help! LJ has a long road ahead of him and may need to access expensive medical resources.  Together we can show the Lopes Family that we have their back and we are here to support them through this difficult time. These funds will be used for medical and related expenses for LJ and family if and when they arise.