You’ve probably read about Weaverville resident Juan Aguirre-Mendez, the 17-year old North Buncombe High School junior who was hit by a drunk driver on September 28.  The latest update on his condition is he has been updated from critical to serious condition.  I’m told his recovery is expected to take a year.

A recovery fund has been set up on his behalf to help with medical bills. Donations can be made by walk-in at any RBC Centura Bank branch, or sent to:

J.A.M. Recovery Fund
c/o RBC Centura Bank
81 Weaver Blvd.
Weaverville, NC 28787

Donations will be accepted through December 31, 2007.

If you had not heard about this story, here’s the news coverage from the Asheville Citizen-Times:

Hit-and-run victim gets help
North Buncombe student in critical condition
Hit-and-run victim still hospitalized

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1. 
   Colonel says:

   Just to update Juan’s status…as of 11/17/07

   He is at home doing quite well . He is continuing some speech therapy and has not returned to school . I was told by his uncle today that he may be back at school within a month.

   Juan’s family would like for me to convey to all the people of Weaverville how much their prayers and donations have been appreciated. They have been overwhelmed at the many friends and strangers who came forward with their love and prayers to help Juan and his family deal with this tragic event.

   Your continued prayers are needed as Juan struggles to regain his strength and mobility.

   Thank you. You made a diference.

   November 17th, 2007 at 6:02 pm

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2. 
   Colonel says:

   Following up:

   I would like to thank all the fine customers of KFC in Weaverville where Juan has been employed . In the weeks following the accident the KFC customers made contributions totaling in excess of $1800 for the family’s immediate expenses.

   KFC thanks you ,as well as Juan’s family thanks you.

   Fantastic Sam’s also raised $110 towards the fund.

   November 17th, 2007 at 6:08 pm

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