Family Of Nurse Wounded In Southbridge Stabbing Attack Starts GoFundMe
SOUTHBRIDGE (CBS) -- The family of a nurse stabbed last weekend in a brutal hospital room attack has started a GoFundMe page for her recovery.
Elise Wilson, 65, has worked at Harrington Hospital for 40 years and was close to retirement.
Her family said in a statement that they are thankful for the support they have received, and gave an update on Elise's recovery.
"While slow, the progress everyday is noticeable and encouraging," the statement read. "Each new day that comes seems to bring along a new ability that she was not able to do the day before. She is an incredibly strong fighter and is extremely determined to not allow the actions of one person effect her goals and dreams for the future."
She was stabbed by a patient, Conor O'Regan, who has a history of mental illness, when they were alone in an examination room. He was arrested shortly after, and now faces charges of assault and battery with a deadly weapon and assault with intent to kill.
On the GoFundMe page, the family wrote that Elise, "a two-time cancer survivor, defended herself the best she could," though the injuries to her neck, arm, upper body, and face were life-threatening.
"We would like to continue to thank the nurses doctor and EMTs that were in the emergency room that day because they are the heroes and they saved her life," the Wilson family statement read.
As of mid-day Monday, the GoFundMe had raised more than $55,365 of it's $75,000 goal.
"As a family we do not want to see this tragedy cause a burden for her and our immediate family," the page reads. "We need to concentrate on Elise's recuperation physically and mentally. If you are in a position to donate we thank you."
If you would like to donate, visit the page here.