Pinecrest High School graduate, Elijah McCormick, is responding well to several surgeries after suffering life-threatening injuries in a car accident.
Elijah was airlifted to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill after being involved in a fiery head-on collision hours after his graduation ceremony Saturday.
The crash occurred just south of the intersection of Hwy 15-501 and Pinebluff Lake Road, outside of Aberdeen.
Immediately after the crash, other drivers stopped their cars and rushed to the aid of the victims.
Elijah’s Toyota sedan was on fire, and bystanders pulled the graduate free from the wreckage. The other vehicle had smoke coming from the front end of the car.
Bystanders pulled McCormick out of his Toyota sedan after being in a head-on collision Saturday ~ Sandhills Sentinel.
The drivers of both cars were taken by ambulances to the Pinebluff ballfield to be airlifted to a trauma center, with McCormick in critical condition. The passenger of the Kia was transported by EMS to Firsthealth Moore Regional.
Elijah’s latest surgery was Monday evening, and Keith McCormick said on social media that his son was responding well with Tuesday being the first day he didn’t require emergency surgery.
Doctors told the family that Elijah’s numbers were moving in the right direction.
Keith said Elijah just needs rest, “however, his lungs, heart, and kidneys are still being supported by machines, but only for a matter of time.”
A GoFundMe page has been established for the McCormick’s. The community has rallied and raised almost $9,000 of their $10,000 goal as of Tuesday evening.
“These many surgeries and time in ICU will be costly, so we need your help,” said the online fundraiser page. “Keith and Teshauna will be staying in Chapel Hill and will require assistance with lodging and food. Because Elijah is 18, they are required to pay for lodging (reduced rate). The length of time is uncertain, so all assistance is appreciated.”
Keith has asked the community to continue to keep Elijah in their prayers as he continues to fight for his life.
Courtesy feature photo.
