Caleb Bowers: Mildura teen recovers from horror crash

Those closest to a Mildura apprentice chef say “no words” can describe their situation after the teen was hit by a car while crossing the main street.

A 18-year-old apprentice chef from Mildura remains in hospital after he was hit by a car while running an errand on April 28.

Caleb Bowers, who was hit while crossing the main street on Deakin Ave, is now breathing on his own and can open his eyes and talk.

Family friend, Kristin Eggert, said Caleb was improving every day.

“Each day is a step in the right direction. All we can do is be here to support Caleb and his family when they need us. Caleb has his family by his side, and the rest of us here working on holding up the fort,” she said.

Ms Eggert described Caleb as a “passionate” teenager who “loved life”.

“He is a great and loving son, big brother and is always there to help and support everyone,” she said.

Caleb is a CFA volunteer, enjoys taekwondo and is an apprentice chef at a Mildura cafe, Brother Chris.

“His growth as a person since his new role, has helped him hit his newly found niche in his journey,” Kristin said.

Caleb Bowers, centre, was hit by a car in Mildura on Deakin Ave in April. Picture: Submitted

Caleb with his mum Karen Phillips. Caleb is now recovering in hospital in Melbourne.

After the crash Caleb was rushed to the Mildura Base Public Hospital where he had surgery to relieve the pressure and stop a bleed on the brain.

That surgery was successful and Caleb was taken to the Alfred hospital where he had more surgeries and was placed in an induced coma to help him recover.

Caleb Bowers is recovering in the Alfred hospital.

Ms Eggert said there was still a long way to go in Caleb’s recovery but money raised from a GoFundMe so far will go towards his family.

“The funds that have been donated will assist Caleb with the immediate and long-term costs that are incurred. It will assist with his family travelling, accommodation, along with any medical costs and time away from their incomes to care for Caleb,” she said.

“We are all unaware of the journey that Caleb faces, until he can open his eyes and take each day as it comes, with the medical professionals guiding his journey.”

Ms Eggert said the family is grateful for the support.

“A huge thank you to everyone in our community for supporting Caleb and his journey. Caleb and his family are so grateful for everyone’s support,” she said.

“No words are ever enough in this type of situation, but our hearts are full knowing our community is so giving and loving.”