Batavia Teen Hurt In Deadly Crash Making Progress, Family Says
GENEVA (CBS) -- As one west suburban family prepared to bury their teen daughter killed in a Kane County crash, the survivor's family cautiously celebrated some positive signs Thursday.
Lynlee Gilbert, 17, was killed when she drove her car off Green Road just north of Main Street near Elburn and hit a tree. Sarah Ginter — Gilbert's friend and passenger — remained in critical condition at Delnor Hospital in Geneva late Thursday. However, family reported signs of progress.
Ginter's family has started a Facebook page to post updates. According to posts from the family, the 18-year-old has several broken ribs, a collapsed lung, a lacerated spleen and a slight swelling on her brain.
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On Thursday, Ginter's mother said doctors were able to turn off her breathing machine for two hours, allowing her to breathe on her own. Ginter could come off the machine Friday. Ginter opened her eyes a few times and put her thumb up slightly when asked.
Ginter cannot yet have visitors, but her mother said they planned to tape the many cards they have received to the ceiling.
Visitation for Gilbert, 17, will be from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Friday at Community Christian Church, 1640 Emerson Lane in Naperville. A memorial service will take place from 4 to 5:15 p.m. at the church, according to her father's Facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, Gilbert's family has requested that donations be made in her name to Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network in Itasca or to Hope for Tomorrow's US VETCARE program.
Both Gilbert and Ginter were set to graduate from Batavia High School in June.
Aurora Beacon-News
