SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Two girls who were hit by a vehicle while walking to school in Crofton, Nebraska are still in “critical condition,” but doing better, the family says.
Breanna (11) and Katelynn (8) Schieffer were walking to school on Friday morning when a juvenile male hit them at a crosswalk. The girls were airlifted to Yankton Avera Hospital and later to Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls with life-threatening injuries.
According to their Caring Bridge page, updated by their Aunt Diane Schieffer, the sisters have both had multiple surgeries over the past four days, including removing their spleens. As of Monday, they were both off their ventilators.
Breanna had several broken bones including her clavicle, three ribs, left humerus, ulna and pelvis. She underwent surgery to repair the compound fracture on her humerus and also had her spleen removed. The latest Caring Bridge post from Monday said there are still worries about internal bleeding for Breanna, however, she’s been able to speak and sit up.
Katelynn also had several broken bones including her jaw bone, eye socket area, two ribs, pelvis, left femur and tailbone. She also had two fractured vertebrae in her neck and a traumatic brain injury. The latest update from Monday said doctors are still worried about her lungs and risk for pneumonia.
“It was the best day. We had lots of smiles and feelings of joy. But we are keenly aware that this is the beginning. And we need people to keep hoping and praying for more days like this,” Diane Schieffer said in a post on Monday. “They are still considered in critical condition. Absolutely not ‘out of the woods.’ Their road is still very long ahead of them. But we are feeling all the love and support, and so are Bre and Kate.”
The family has also set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical costs for the girls which currently has over $20,000.
Crofton Community School, Breanna and Katelynn’s destination that morning, have counselors available at the school for any students who may need help processing Friday’s events. A 24/7 hotline through Heartland Counselors is also available at 402-494-7655.
“Crofton Community School will keep parents, guardians, students, and the community informed of any developments in this situation as needed,” a Facebook post from the school read. “… The outpouring of love and support from everyone near and far has been amazing! Please continue to keep all those involved in your thoughts and prayers.”
