An online fundraiser has been started to help one of the Thompson Rivers University men’s volleyball athletes involved in a fatal multi-vehicle collision last week.
Riley Brinnen is currently in a hospital in the Lower Mainland, recovering after surgery and the extent of his injuries is still unknown.
“Riley was transported to Vancouver General Hospital by air ambulance following the accident with a severe spinal injury, the extent of which is yet to be fully determined,” reads the GoFundMe description.
The fundraiser adds that Brinnen underwent surgery on Thursday and is in the spinal ICU with his family by his side.
Brinnen is expected to be at VGH and the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre for several months.
“We are overwhelmingly grateful for the support the family has received," adds the GoFundMe description.
“This GoFundMe will help cover some of the costs as Riley, his family and the medical team work towards building his new normal going forward."
Nearly $19,000 has been raised towards the fundraiser's $65,000 goal.
Brinnen is a fourth-year middle for the TRU WolfPack, hailing from Kelowna.
He played minor hockey while growing up and graduated from Kelowna Secondary School in 2020.
Donations can be made online at this link.
