Spandana Lagishetti, an Indian student pursuing her master's degree at Elmhurst University in Illinois, suffered a devastating accident after falling approximately 25 feet at a subway station on May 30. The incident was reported through a fundraiser organized on behalf of her family, which is seeking financial assistance for her medical treatment.
Details of the Accident
According to the fundraiser, Spandana sustained multiple life-threatening injuries from the fall. She was immediately rushed to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, where she remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) receiving critical care. The extent of her injuries is described as heartbreaking.
Injuries Sustained
The fall caused traumatic brain injuries, including bleeding around the brain, severe brain bruising, skull fractures, and injuries to blood vessels supplying the brain. Several ribs were fractured, leading to partial collapse of both lungs and requiring emergency chest tube placement. Internal injuries affected her liver and spleen, causing internal bleeding. She also suffered fractures throughout her spine and lower back, as well as multiple fractures in her pelvis. Spandana remains unconscious as doctors continue to fight for her recovery.
Financial and Family Challenges
The fundraiser highlights that her medical expenses are not covered by insurance, and the cost of critical care is escalating daily. Her family is facing an overwhelming financial burden during this tragic time. Her parents in India are desperately trying to travel to the United States to be by her side, while also struggling with the financial challenges created by this sudden tragedy. Spandana came to the US for her master's degree after completing her B.Tech in Chennai. Her father works as a cab driver.
