More information is coming to light about a deadly car crash in Chandler earlier this month.
Pamela Hesselbacher, 31, and her two young children, were crossing the College Avenue and Ray Road when they were allegedly struck by 39-year-old WilliamEpperlein.
All three victims were hospitalized, but Pamela later died as a result of her injuries.
Pamela’s mom, Jody Kieran, created a GoFundMe page to go towards the family’s medical care. She has also taken to the page to provide multiple updates about the conditions of 3-year-old Ryan and 1-year-old Audrey.
"Nothing you can prepare yourself for, whatsoever," Jody said.
According to an update posted on Friday, Ryan was released from the hospital and is happy to be home with his Labrador Retriever named “Jordan.” He’ll have to undergo physical therapy but has already shown progress and was able to stand “for a few seconds,” the GoFundMe page said.
"There's been a lot of sadness here and this is a big joy," Jody said. "We're proud of the little guy."
However, Audrey remains in the Intensive Care Unit in a coma. According to the GoFundMe page, hospital staff put a pink bow in her hair.
Regardless, Pamela's sister, Kaliegh Kieran, said they're celebrating all the little victories.
There's life coming back into her right now and that's what you have to look for," Kaliegh said.
Last week an update on the page said her brain pressure levels are dropping and her temperature is reaching a normal range. It’s believed that she’ll have to wear a neck brace for several weeks but the page said “This little girl, just like her mom, is a real fighter.”
As Ryan's health continues to improve, the family decided that it's time to tell him that his mother didn't survive the accident.
"He cried," Jody said. "He cried a lot and everyone in the room cried too."
"After they had their little talk, he just wanted to play with dad," Jody said. "They played, which is good, because you can be happy and you can be said. And his mom wouldn't want him to be sad all the time."
As of Sunday afternoon, the GoFundMe page was about $4,000 short of its $85,000 goal. According to the family, Pamela's husband was overcome was emotion after hearing that he could pay for his kids' medical expenses with the funds raised.
Police say the suspect was driving on a suspended license at the time of the deadly accident. An investigation is ongoing.
