On Sept. 22, Sammy Coleman of Starkville was having a great day, riding his bike and enjoying the weather. Then his life changed in an instant when he wrecked with an automobile.
His injuries were so dire that he had to be airlifted to University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. There he began the fight of his life. So far, Sammy has had three surgeries with another scheduled as soon as possible. The list of injuries is long: broken right ankle, compound fracture of the left tibia, multiple broken ribs, a collapsed lung, a punctured bladder, a concussion and a torn spleen. But the most serious injury was to his pelvis. Doctors said they had never seen a break so severe.
After repair for the injuries in three different surgeries, Sammy is fighting pneumonia, internal bleeding, respiratory problems and kidney/urological issues.
But Sammy is a fighter and continues a brave battle. He isn’t alone. The community is rallying to his aid with prayers and fundraisers. Here is how you can help:
• Give Blood: a blood drive is being held Thursday, Oct. 10, which happens to be Sammy’s 65th birthday. Anyone can donate on that day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Main Street Starkville across from the Starkville Café. Sammy will receive monetary credit toward his medical expenses for every unit donated and the community benefits by having a larger supply of blood.
• Donate in Person: An account in Sammy’s name has been set up at Regions Bank to help defray medical costs. You can go to any teller and tell them you want to donate to the Sammy Coleman fund.
• Donate Onoline: A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up so anyone can make a donation online to help with all expenses. The link can be found here:
www.gofundme.com/f/sammy-coleman-needs-our-help-with-medical-costs?rcid=....
Sammy is a Choctaw County native and his family is from Webster County. The family is so grateful to all who have offered prayers and help during this time.
