WYOMING, Mich. – A little girl from the Grand Rapids area is learning how to walk again after a frightening accident last week.
Ottawa County deputies said biker Bryan Hornick was unable to stop in time before hitting Ryann Sather, 5, when she ran in front of his motorcycle. Sather was sent to the hospital with critical head and neck injuries, including a fractured skull.
Sather’s mother Rochelle told FOX 17 that she and her family “deeply appreciate everyone’s help, prayers, and support” as their little girl recovers. She said her daughter was recently moved from intensive care to rehabilitation where she is moving and walking with the help of therapists and loved ones.
Now Hornick said he is doing everything he can to organize a fundraiser for Sather and her family. He said he is haunted by last week’s accident.
“It will be with me for the rest of my life,” said Hornick. “It’s just an accident, a child wanting to play, that’s all it was.”
Hornick was driving northbound on 8th Avenue in Tallmadge Township. Deputies said Sather ran across the street towards her friend’s house, when Hornick could not stop in time.
Hornick said he is thankful to get updates from Sather’s family who said she is healing.
“The more news I hear about her improving herself has actually been helping me,” said Hornick.
Hornick is organizing a fundraiser benefit for Sather’s medical expenses and her family. On Sept. 27 he plans to host food, a cash bar, silent auction and raffle at American Legion Post 179 from noon until 3 p.m. That’s located at 2327 Wilson Avenue in Walker.
“We’ve got a long ways to go, it’s a month from now, and we’re looking for any form of support: maybe any items that can be donated we can put towards the silent auction; any way to raise money for this family,” said Hornick.
Hornick said he is doing everything he can to raise money for Sather. As of Friday he said he had about 20 local businesses sponsoring the benefit.
“All she wanted to do is play,” said Hornick. “I just want her be the playful little child again, I’m looking forward to hearing about that.”
Sather’s mother told FOX 17 she is very appreciative of Hornick putting together this benefit for her daughter.
And although Hornick was not distracted while driving in this accident, he reminds all drivers to pay attention out on the road and put cell phones down.
Hornick is still working to sign on more sponsors and receive items for the silent auction and 50/50 raffle. If you would like to help call Bryan Hornick at (616) 531-4695, or (616) 666-5541.
