GRIEVING family and friends of 22-year-old Chelsea De Freitas who died after sustaining life-threatening injuries in a horrific accident, will gather today as she is laid to rest.
Three weeks ago, Chelsea was riding her scooter at the corner of Ashley Road and Old Main Road in Hillcrest, when a taxi driver allegedly skipped a red traffic light and hit her.
She sustained broken legs and arms and internal injuries. She was admitted to Westville Life Hospital and was on a life support machine. Her condition continued to deteriorate and her family had no choice but to make the most painful decision to switch off the machine.
Following the incident, a Facebook page, titled, ‘Support for Chelsea and Family‘ was created. Residents used this platform to convey their messages of support and prayers . The page was also used to post daily updates on Chelsea’s condition.
Chelsea’s mother, Tracy Gelman Lee, shared her appreciation for the support they have received. In a post on a social networking site, she said:
“There are no words to describe my pain and disbelief. The loss of my child has left me reeling. So many prayers, kind words and offers of assistance. I thank everyone for all your messages and I know that the loss reaches far and wide. I know she is with me. I feel her presence.”
Michael Christie, Chelsea’s grandfather posted a status on Facebook and called on residents to make today, Chelsea Day.
The post read:
“Try and obey the rules for a day. Maybe even show good manners and consideration. If we can save one family the pain of switching off the machines -when all hope is lost -we will have achieved something. Just one day with us and our friends doing what we all should do every day.”
Messages of support and condolences are constantly being posted: Below are some statuses from the ‘Support for Chelsea and Family’ Facebook page.
