A heartbreaking car accident in rural Nebraska has left a 17-year-old Wisconsin girl, Evelyn “Evey” Laux, paralyzed from the waist down. The incident occurred on January 3rd, 2025, during a school break visit to a friend in St. Paul, Nebraska. This tragic event has not only altered Evey’s life irrevocably but also highlighted the devastating consequences of unexpected accidents and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
The Accident and its Immediate Aftermath
According to reports from ABC affiliate WISN 12 and a GoFundMe page established by Evey’s mother, Connie Laux, Evey was driving her friend’s truck when she lost control, overcorrected the steering wheel, and caused the vehicle to roll. While her friend escaped with minor injuries, Evey was thrown into the backseat and pinned until rescue workers could extricate her using the jaws of life. The severity of the crash left Evey with a spinal cord injury that resulted in paralysis.
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Evey’s parents, who were nine hours away in Wisconsin at the time, received the devastating news through their daughter’s Apple phone and the Life360 app. They immediately embarked on a 620-mile drive to be by her side, maintaining constant communication with the medical team throughout the journey. Upon arrival, they were informed by the neurosurgeon that while Evey’s injuries were not life-threatening, she would likely face permanent paralysis due to a severely fractured spine.
Evey’s Strength and the Family’s Challenges
Despite the unimaginable trauma, Evey’s first words to her mother were, “I am so sorry,” followed by a heartbreaking lament for the future she envisioned: “I will never be able to play softball, ride a horse, or be a veterinary surgeon.” This poignant expression of loss underscores the profound impact of the accident on a young life brimming with potential. Evey’s dreams, like her physical abilities, have been abruptly and tragically altered.
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Beyond the emotional devastation, the Laux family is now grappling with significant financial challenges. Connie Laux explained on the GoFundMe page that in addition to reduced work hours to care for Evey, the family faces substantial expenses related to home modifications for wheelchair accessibility. These include installing a lift for chairs and beds, a stair lift, ramps, purchasing wheelchairs, and other necessary equipment. The long-term financial implications of Evey’s care are daunting, adding another layer of complexity to an already heartbreaking situation.
Community Support and the Road to Recovery
In the face of adversity, the Laux family has been enveloped by an outpouring of love and support from their community. A CaringBridge page created for Evey documents the overwhelming response, with countless messages sharing positive memories and expressing heartfelt concern. Connie Laux has emphasized the importance of these messages in bolstering Evey’s spirits and reminding her of the love and support surrounding her.
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Evey’s journey to recovery will be long and arduous, requiring extensive rehabilitation and adaptation to a new way of life. While the future remains uncertain, the strength of Evey’s spirit, coupled with the unwavering support of her family and community, offers a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. The GoFundMe campaign aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens, allowing the family to focus on Evey’s care and well-being as she navigates this challenging chapter. The Laux family’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life, the importance of cherishing every moment, and the profound impact of community support in times of need. It also underscores the critical need for safe driving practices, especially among young drivers, to prevent such tragedies from occurring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Evey Laux’s Accident
What caused the accident that paralyzed Evey Laux?
Evey lost control of the truck she was driving, overcorrected the steering wheel, and the vehicle rolled over.
What are the Laux family’s biggest challenges now?
The family faces the emotional toll of Evey’s paralysis and the substantial financial burden of her long-term care and necessary home modifications for accessibility.
How can people help the Laux family?
People can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign set up to support Evey’s medical expenses and home modifications. They can also offer messages of support and encouragement through the CaringBridge page.
What is Evey’s prognosis?
Evey is paralyzed from the waist down. Her long-term prognosis is unknown, but she faces a long road to recovery and adaptation. She will require extensive rehabilitation and ongoing care.
What is the purpose of the CaringBridge page?
The CaringBridge page provides a platform for the family to share updates on Evey’s condition and allows friends and community members to offer messages of support and encouragement.
