The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

IN AN effort to raise much needed funds for mounting medical expenses, the family of 24-year-old Klarence Butler has launch an online campaign.

A little over two months ago, Klarence beat the odds when he survived a horrific car accident.
The Butlers are hoping to raise $120,000 with an online campaign that was launched last week on the San Diego-based GofundMe, one of the top fundraising sites for personal causes and life events.
The Butler family’s ordeal began when Klarence, an employee with Bahamas Ferries, was involved in an accident in the early morning hours of May 9. While at a traffic light on Collins Avenue, Klarence was hit by another vehicle. His car then hit a pole. Klarence’s car was unrecognisable after the crash, the family said.

News of the accident came as a complete shock to the family and left them in a state of despair.

However, according to family members, “Miracles have been taking place” every step of the way since Klarence was first admitted to hospital.

And while the road ahead is still a long and challenging one, the Butlers are determined to fight for the full restoration of his health.
As a result of injuries to his lungs, brain and lower body, Klarence had to undergo major surgery. He also sustained some injury to the spine and is doing therapy to assist with his recovery.

However, Klarence requires more advanced therapy sessions that are currently not available at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

“Our family, along with his doctors, have done some research and have found a rehab centre in Florida that can provide the necessary treatment that he needs,” the Butlers said in a statement on the GoFundMe website.

“Lance, as he is called, continues to make improvements on a daily basis but has a lot more to conquer. His doctors estimate that he will be unable to work for another 12 to 18 months, but the family is prayerful that God will continue to perform miraculous wonders through him. Lance, unfortunately, had no medical insurance at the time of the accident which now leaves his family to foot the costs of a growing bill.”

Over the past few weeks, the Butler family has hosted several steak-outs to raise funds that will go towards covering Klarence’s mounting medical expenses. They are still appealing to the wider public to lend their support in any way they can.

“We would appreciate any donations that can assist in reaching our goal. Little is much when God is in it. Family has put forth two fundraisers so far and plan to host other events to help raise funds,” they said.

“Our prayer is that Lance will have a full recovery and the best testimony to proclaim to the world about the undying love, grace and mercy of God. We declare that every hand that will stretch forth to give will be blessed in abundance and continued favour will reign over you and your families.”

The Butlers are also thankful to everyone who assisted financially, gave their time or even just a word of encouragement.

Persons interested in donating to Klarence’s medical fund can contact Theresa Butler at 324-8476 or 455-8035, and log on to the website gofundme.com/TeamLance13.