Long Road To Recovery For Hillsborough Dad Hit By Oncoming Car
HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough father of two and husband Colin Coakley was driving home from work, and in a heartbeat, his life changed forever.
The three-car crash happened the night of June 19 at the intersection of Hamilton Street and Hillcrest Avenue in the Somerset section of Franklin.
Mario Heslop, 23, of New Brunswick was driving his Infiniti eastbound in the left lane when he crossed the center line and hit Coakley who was driving westbound in the left lane of Hamilton Street, said authorities. Read More: Driver Dies After Crossing Into Oncoming Traffic In Franklin: Police
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Coakley was then hit from behind by a third vehicle involved in the crash, which was also driving westbound in the left lane of Hamilton Street, said police.
Heslop died following the crash. Coakley was hospitalized in the ICU with serious injuries. He is now working to recover at home.
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“We are saddened that the other young man did not survive the accident. But we are deeply affected by the serious injuries that Colin is suffering from,” said Colin’s wife Joyce to Patch.
“He has had multiple injuries and several surgeries with more to follow. The next step is getting him to walk again,” said Joyce.
In an effort to help her family provide financial support during this difficult time, Joyce has set up a GoFundMe fundraising site.
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Money raised will be used for day-to-day expenses and any other financial challenges that may arise during his recovery.
“For those of you who know Colin, he has an unselfish and caring spirit. He amazes me at how he always thinks of others before himself. He has also been someone who is on-the-go and always needs to be ‘active.’ Sitting still, relaxing, and taking days off are things he was never good at,” said Joyce in her GoFundMe. “Due to the accident and serious injuries, this has been a very trying time for him in so many ways. Though difficult, his positive outlook and ever so grateful attitude are pulling him through.”
Colin’s most recent follow-up visit to the orthopedic surgeon went well. And he is scheduled for another surgery within the month for his new ankle.
“His journey will be long. His journey will be tough. But we know that he will recover in time,” said Joyce.
For more information or to donate visit gofundme.com/f/please-help-with-colins-recovery.
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