GoFundMe gathering steam for Kamloops teen badly injured in trampoline accident

Kamloops residents are coming together to support one of their own following a devastating trampoline accident last month.

According to a GoFundMe created by Ryan Gelowitz on May 30, Cameron Gelowitz had a life-altering accident that resulted in a broken L1 vertebra. The teenager was practicing "flips and spins" on his trampoline, which he'd done hundreds of times, when his feet slipped from under him.

"Cameron and His brother Riley were taking turns on the trampoline at their mom's house, practicing flips and spins that they had done hundreds of times," wrote Gelowitz. " However, this time around, the trampoline was slightly damp which caused Cameron's feet to slip at the onset of one of his tricks. Cameron knew he was in trouble the moment he felt his feet go out from underneath him due to the slippery tarp."

Through surgery, doctors fused five vertebrae together and decompressed the spinal cord. At this point, Cameron has some feeling in parts of his legs, though the damage will never be undone.

"His left leg is the stronger of the two, with limited sensation in his foot. The right foot has no sensation at this time, with sensations felt on his quad above his knee. There is limited sensation up the back of his right leg up to, and including his glutes."

"According to the doctors, the surgery for this type of injury is not intended to undo the damage that was done so that life can return to normal, such as a broken arm. The purpose of the surgery is to re-align, and stabilize, the spinal cord and vertebrae so that Cameron could begin rehabilitation as soon as possible."

Following the incident, Cameron was taken by ambulance to Royal Inland Hospital. From there, he was air-lifted to Vancouver General for hours of emergency surgery.

Now out of surgery, Cameron is expected to undertake a 10 to 12-week rehab process at the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver. After that, his continued recovery will be at home in Kamloops.

The GoFundMe was created to help relieve financial pressures put on the family during this difficult time. Donations will be used for food, accommodation, travel expenses, medical bills, and more.

So far, $9,405 of the $20,000 goal has been raised. To learn more and to donate, click here.