Young bride-to-be left paralysed in freak motorbike accident
A young freestyle rider has been left paralysed from the ribs down after falling from her motorbike in a horrific training accident.
Christina Vithoulkas suffered a lacerated spleen, punctured lungs, broken ribs, and severed her spinal cord after mistiming a jump while training in the South Australian riverland region over the weekend.
The 23-year-old, described by her loved ones as a vibrant and beautiful girl, was rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital where the extent of her injuries were revealed.
Christina had recently become engaged to her partner and fellow freestyle rider, James Wild, who, along with her family has been left devastated by the accident.
In a heartbreaking social media post, Mr Wild revealed shared a message from his brave fiancée.
“Christina’s words; ‘Unfortunately things aren’t going to be the same for me anymore, I’m going to learn how to use a wheelchair & adapt to my new lifestyle. Thank you for all the positive support that you guys have given me through this time so far I love you all,” the post read.
“We love you Christina, you got this.”
“We’re so lucky to still have you here. You are so strong, your drive and mind is absolutely incredible if anyone will get through this you will!”
Christina’s sister-in-law has since started a GoFundMe page to try and raise $250,000 to help cover the medical bills. More than $50,000 was raised in the first 24 hours.
“These precious donations will assist Christina with Housing, Equipment, Medical & other support systems to assist her throughout her life,” the GoFundMe page read.
