Friend of Sudbury teen critically injured in Skead Road crash rallies support

A St. Charles College student is rallying support for her best friend who was critically-injured in a single-vehicle crash on Skead Road on Oct. 7.

Grade 10 student Isabella Vasquez was one of five people in the single-vehicle rollover on Saturday night.

Isabelle Vasquez, Grade 10 St. Charles College student who was criticially injured in a single-vehicle rollover on Skead Road in Sudbury. (Ethan Macdonald)

Four of the occupants were taken to hospital and two have serious injuries, including Vasquez.

She was airlifted to SickKids hospital in Toronto and has undergone spinal surgery, her friend Ethan Macdonald told CTV News in a phone interview.

Single mother Sarah Kowalchuk flew down to be by her daughter's side, leaving her younger son to be cared for by his aunt.

Macdonald wanted to do something to help the family, so she started an online fundraiser.

"With the unknown circumstances of how long Izzy’s recovery may be, hotel bills, medical expenses and time off work will be a major money playing factor," the Grade 11 student said.

"The last thing she should have to worry about is any financial problems.

Within three days, it raised more than $27,000 with more than 300 donations, surpassing the original goal of $8,000 in one day.

"I never imagined it was going to get this much attention," Macdonald said.

"I'm beyond grateful and proud the community has come together and support."

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Vasquez plays flag football, so donations are being collected at the game Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. against Lo-Ellen high school at James Jerome.

People are being encouraged to wear blue – Izzy's favourite colour – to the game in support.

Macdonald said Isabella is in stable condition now.

"Isabella is a very well known girl for her uplifting personality, she is the upmost selfless human being we know, always offering a helping hand to those in need," the online fundraiser said.

"Isabella’s mom would like to continue to thank each and every one of you for the donations and the kind words of support … Isabella would like to thank everyone for keeping her in your prayers and thoughts, she is beyond grateful for each and everyone who has made this journey easier."

Another boy injured in the crash broke both his femurs, she said.

He also had surgery and is at HSN.

Sudbury police spokesperson Kaitlyn Dunn told CTV News all five people in the vehicle that crashed are 16 years old.

No word on why the driver lost control and left the road, causing the vehicle to roll several times.

"The investigation into the collision is still ongoing," Dunn said.

"Neither drugs, nor alcohol contributed to the collision."