Recovery fund ticks over $30K

More than 180 donors helped raise money to help Ethan Kirkbride recover from a serious car accident.

Ethan Kirkbride, 17, suffered serious injuries in a tragic car accident. A GoFundMe was set up to support his recovery. Picture: Marc Benson

WHEN the GoFundMe campaign for Roma's own Ethan Kirkbride was set up 28 days ago, the community immediately jumped in to support him, opening their hearts and wallets to the teen who was injured in a serious car accident.

Donations flooded in over the first few days of the campaign being set up, and they continued to stream in over the proceeding days and weeks, showing the generosity of Roma knows no bounds.

As of midday today, the fund to cover the 17-year-old's medical bills ticked over to $31,662 - far exceeding the initial $30,000 goal.

In total, 188 donations were made by individuals, local businesses, and cohorts from both of Roma's schools all added up to make a difference.

The GoFundMe page for Roma teen Ethan Kirkbride reached and exceeded its fundraising goal today. Picture: GoFundMe

The most recent update on the GoFundMe page, written 8 days ago by facilitator Marc Benson, thanked all donors for their support.

"Hi everyone,

"Again, thank you for everyone's support towards Ethan.

"The amount of sharing on this page and then the donations have been very well received by Ethan and his family.

"To give you all an update on the proceeds of this page, we have linked a bank account to [this page] in the name of Joanne Liston, Ethan's mum.

"The number one reason for this is that Ethan is unable to access his accounts currently, whereas Joanne needs to so that the medical bills are paid.

"Joanne and Ethan will both work together to use these donations towards the expenses post-accident.

"Number two is that I am only the facilitator of this page, and do not wish to be involved with the handling of Ethan's money.

"On behalf of Ethan, Joanne and family, thank you so much for what has been done so far to get behind them.

"Cheers.”

The GoFundMe page received more than 1600 shares on social media, getting the word out about the recovery fund.