Donations for ‘inspirational’ survivor
A fundraising page has been set up to help an ‘‘inspirational, caring and loyal’’ woman severely injured in a crash that killed her mother.
Stephanie Budding was critically injured when the vehicle she and her mother were travelling in and a truck collided on Rangitikei Line, State Highway 3, just outside of Palmerston North on January 9.
Her mother, Linda Budding, 53, died at the scene.
Stephanie was taken to the intensive care unit at Wellington Hospital.
A Givealittle page has been set up for Stephanie to help her with her recovery.
The page describes Stephanie as an inspirational, caring and loyal young woman.
She gave her time freely to help teach children to ride ponies, spending countless hours at a local pony club as a volunteer coach, the page says.
‘‘Stephanie always had time to help friends and family. She has the ability to put little ones at ease and give them the courage to do things they didn’t think they could. A moment in time meant her life was changed forever. She lost her mum and has ended up in Wellington Hospital in the ICU ward with critical injuries.’’
It was unclear when she would return to her life and job, the page says.
‘‘Stephanie always gave, so it’s our time to show her how much we appreciate what she did and give to her.’’
The page, called Steph’s Road to Recovery, has raised more than $4000.
Linda Budding’s funeral will be held on Tuesday.
Phil Budding did not wish to comment on his wife’s death or his daughter’s condition. A hospital spokesman said Stephanie remained in the intensive care unit in a serious condition.