Injured CT physical therapist Marianne Baun gets check from PHL government
Marianne, husband Gumersindo and their three young children. Photos: Go Fund Me
Marianne was comatose for several weeks, and remains confined in the Intensive Care Unit. Her family said she is gradually recovering.
The check was handed over to Gumersindo Baun, the husband. Gumersindo himself is also recovering from the effects of an emergency surgery, as he was also in the same car that figured in the accident.
Marianne entered the United States in 2014 on an H1B visa for temporary skilled workers. She and her husband have three young children. As the sole breadwinner, her inability to work has put a severe strain on the family’s resources, according to a statement from the consulate. Her husband appealed to the Philippine government for assistance.
The Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs (OUMWA) in Manila authorized financial assistance for the family, noting that aside from the spouses, there were also three very young children who needed support.
Gumersindo expressed his thanks for the government’s assistance, noting the amount would go a long way toward supporting the family during their period of recovery.
Meanwhile, a crowdfunding campaign was also organized by the family led by brother-in-law Reynaldo Baun. As of this time, $91,767 was raised toward a goal of $100K.
According to the Go Fund Me page, Marianne and her husband Gomer were pulling out from a facility when suddenly a Toyota Tundra hit them head-on.
“Marianne’s injuries were so severe that she had to be flown in to the hospital by a helicopter. Gomer sustained serious injuries also and was transported to a separate hospital. Marianne sustained a C5-C6 SCI (related to level of spinal cord injury – Ed.) while Gomer underwent several surgeries due to severe internal bleeding,” it said.
Marianne is a mother of three, the oldest being 11 years old and her twins are aged 6.
“With her condition, the family has no source of income,” said the campaign. “The funds we intend to raise will be used for the family’s everyday expenses, medical expenses and immigration expenses since she is still working under her H1B. It is devastating that this family’s plans for the future is cut short by this heartbreaking accident.” — Cristina DC Pastor
Marianne’s children visit mom in the hospital: Sole breadwinner
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