17-year-old Kyrie Hill and her family are seeking aid from the Western Slope community after the teenager, who was riding as a passenger in a car, was struck by a reckless driver in Montrose.
The crash, on High Mesa Road, about two weeks ago, left Hill with a “traumatic spinal injury” that required an emergency medical flight to the Children’s Hospital in Aurora, where the teenager has languished since.
Doctors determined that Hill sustained two fractures to her spine, a shattered L1 vertebra, a fractured L5 vertebra, three broken ribs, a concussion and a contusion to her intestines.
Since then, the teenager has undergone major spinal surgery, involving two rods and 10 screws, while spending three days in the ICU and remaining in the hospital indefinitely.
Whenever Hill is discharged, according to her brother, she will require at least six weeks of physical therapy, with continued care a likely possibility.
“The medical costs are overwhelming and ongoing,” Taryn Hill, Kyrie’s older brother, wrote on GoFundMe. “Between emergency transport, life flight, intensive care, surgery, hospitalization and rehabilitation, expenses are expected to exceed $200,000.”
As of writing, the fundraiser has garnered just 9% (or $2,770) of its $30,000 goal. To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/help-kyrie-recover-after-a-traumatic-spine-injury.
Grand River Health, the Rifle area’s primary healthcare provider and hospital, is inviting locals to “play with a robot,” at its Technology Open House next Thursday, Feb. 12.
According to a press release, the event will last between 5 and 7 p.m., at 501 Airport Road. Attendees are instructed to enter through Door D.
The free, open-to-all event will feature live technology demonstrations and hands-on experiences with the hospital’s daVinci and MAKO surgery robots, such as attempting to unwrap a Starburst candy, “experiencing the precision surgeons use every day.”
The event will also include a look at the facility’s new MRI and CT equipment, as well as an opportunity to chat with physicians and providers over light refreshments.
Registration is not required. To learn more, call 970-625-1510.
Mesa County Public Health sent a press release on Tuesday, reminding residents that flu season is still underway, and it’s never too late to get immunized.
According to the release, interested locals can get their shot at the Mesa County Public Health Clinic, 510 29 ½ Road, during its weekly walk-in flu clinic.
The recurring opportunity takes place every Friday, from 8 to 11 a.m. The release added that participants should bring an ID and insurance card; however, the clinic “will work with you if you don’t have insurance.”
For those interested in a vaccine outside of walk-in hours, call 970-248-6906 to schedule an appointment.
Locals who love wine, food and philanthropy are in luck, as tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Edesia festival, dubbed “Carnival in the Vineyards.”
Beyond a high-end “wine pairing dinner” and daytime “culinary, wine and spirits adventure,” the proceeds from ticket sales will directly benefit PrimeHealth+, formerly known as Marillac Health.
The federally qualified health center – offering physical, dental and behavioral healthcare at an income-based rate – serves roughly 16,000 locals each year, ensuring access to care regardless of income.
The two-day event, hosted by the Wine Country Inn (777 Grande River Dr.), will take place on March 28 and 29. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit EdesiaPalisade.com.
Health Headlines is a Sentinel feature compiled by Jace DiCola, health and wellness reporter. Email him at [email protected]. This series is not an endorsement of specific clinics, medical services or activities.
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