By Latrishka Thomas
A concert and luncheon is the next fundraiser being organised by the family of national cyclist Andre Simon as they work feverishly towards raising enough money to send him to the US for medical treatment.
Simon was one of four cyclists struck by a vehicle while training on Mother’s Day but the 36-year-old, who suffered the most serious injuries, remains at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre after experiencing head trauma and internal bleeding.
In the latest update, Andre’s sister Beatrice Simon stated that he is not only out of the ICU but he is no longer dependent on ventilators and is “pretty much breathing on his own with a little oxygen”.
Beatrice further shared that her brother is in what is called a “wakefulness coma” where “his eyes are still open but he is not responsive”.
Andre is therefore still in need of urgent medical treatment which requires that he be taken overseas.
Noting that the venture is extremely costly, several fundraisers have been organised including a GoFundMe page which has so far raised around US$32,000.
Beatrice is appealing to the public to continue to donate and/or attend the concert and luncheon on June 11 which will feature food and activities for all.
From 11am to 6pm residents can enjoy performances from top Antiguan talents such as Tian Winter, Menace, Richie Francis, Queen Althea, Drastic, Jashan, Kelly and Venisa, Peetron, Know Label and Lyrics Man.
And according to Beatrice, the food and drinks on sale will not only cater to every type of eater but there will also be activities for both children and adults such as face painting and raffles.
Persons wishing to purchase tickets or to simply donate to the cause can call Beatrice at 770-5144.
Monetary donations can also be made through the GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/49f11497 or to the Caribbean Union Bank AC# 20004089, the Community First Cooperative Credit Union AC# 098425, and the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank AC# 131003564.
Around $1,200 has so far been raised through the various bank accounts.
The motorist alleged to have struck Simon – along with fellow cyclists Sean Weathered, Ghere Coates and Tiziano Rosignoli who all also received hospital treatment but were later discharged – has been charged with dangerous driving.
Kenyatta Benjamin, 39, of Hatton, was bailed and is due back in court on July 28.