SALT LAKE CITY ABC4 — Katie Laparra and her family left for a long-awaited trip to Guatemala on August 6. Just a few days into their vacation, their plans took a tragic turn due to an accident.
While riding ATVs, Katie made a sharp turn and collided with a roadside post. Her children, who were ahead of her, didn’t witness the crash.
Katie broke 10 ribs, her shoulder, and four vertebrae in her lower back, said her father, Gary Kennard.
Due to the severity of her injuries, Katie needed to be airlifted back to Utah for specialized care, but arranging the transport proved challenging.
Katie’s sister, Amy Wilcox, mentioned that the family was unsure if Katie was stable enough to be moved. “She couldn’t even sit up,” Amy said.
After nearly two weeks of waiting and coordination, Katie was finally flown back to Utah on August 17.
During her stay in Guatemala, Katie developed a fever, underwent surgery, and received several blood transfusions. While she is expected to recover, she faces a long journey ahead.
As of August 18, Katie is at the University of Utah hospital. However, the family is still struggling with the high costs of her return, which have already reached around $65,000.
“I think she’s doing okay,” said Katie’s daughter, Selayna. “But right now, she can’t move because her spine is still unstable.”
Katie’s family has set up a GoFundMe page and has received support from both friends and strangers. “We knew we had to get her back, no matter the cost,” Amy said.
The family remains grateful for all the help they’ve received. “I’m amazed by the support we’ve gotten,” Amy added.