Md. Survivor Of Boston Marathon Bombings Receives $15K Donation
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- A Maryland survivor of the Boston Marathon bombings receives a very generous donation.
As Linh Bui reports, this will be a huge help as Erika Brannock continues her recovery.
Erika Brannock says she's had some setbacks this year, including two bad infections, but now she's ready for a big step in her progress.
A hero's welcome for Towson teacher Erika Brannock, who's taken incredible strides since surviving the Boston Marathon bombings.
Erika Brannock was at the finish line cheering on her mom. Brannock's injuries were so severe, she lost part of her left leg. The recovery has been difficult. But Saturday, Brannock just needs a cane to walk on her prosthetic leg.
"I'm ready for my independence and I know that my mom is ready to see me independent," said Brannock.
That means moving into her own place. The Free Masons of Maryland have helped Brannock get back on her feet. When she came home last summer, they raised $10,000 . Now they've pulled together again, this time donating more than $15,000.
"They know it's for Erika. They know what she's doing. They know the intense recovery and surgeries that she has to go through. And they just keep giving," said Gerry Piepiora, Free Mason's of Maryland.
Brannock was filled with emotion over their generosity.
"Never thought that it would be for that amount of money. I really also wanted to come and thank them for everything they've done and the support that they've given me," Brannock said.
The money will go toward making her new condo handicapped accessible--the next step in her journey.
"It's just a weight off my shoulders. I don't have to worry about how I'm going to live on my own," she said.
Brannock will have her 19th and 20th surgeries in the next few weeks.
The Free Masons of Maryland also renovated the bathroom at Brannock's parents' house to make that handicapped accessible as well.
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