Injured driver, 80, supported through long recovery
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Updated: July 03, 2009 1:10 PM
A Peninsula senior seriously injured last month when she was run over by her own vehicle has a long road to recovery ahead of her.
But the mid-June accident hasn't doused June Trotter's spirits, said Lesley Maudsley, a longtime friend.
"Mentally, she's fine. Physically, her body's in a mess," Maudsley said Thursday.
"Going to see her, June's June."
Trotter, a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 240 Ladies' Auxiliary, was airlifted to hospital from South Surrey Athletic Park June 16, after her van rolled over her in a parking lot at 2429 152 St.
Trotter, 80, remembers putting one foot on the ground after opening her door to get out of the vehicle, Maudsley said.
"The next thing she knew, the car was pulling her backwards and pulled her out and rolled over her."
Firefighters responding to the scene found the van in reverse.
Trotter's injuries included a crushed pelvis, punctured lung, broken ribs and a gash on her right leg. She also needed stitches in an elbow.
Because of the seriousness of her injuries, Trotter was initially put in an induced coma. But when she came out of that with her usual punchiness, Maudsley knew she'd pull through.
It will be some time before Trotter can get back to normal. She's already undergone two surgeries, and doctors have said it will be another six weeks before they'll even let her stand, Maudsley said.
"With her pelvis the way it is, she's going to have to learn to walk again."
The forced idleness has been tough for the normally active Trotter, Maudsley said. The senior is typically busy with auxiliary work, catering for community groups and other service.
Judging by the well wishes that have filled her hospital room, she is missed.
"She's got flowers and cards just coming out of everywhere," Maudsley said.
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