Motorcyclists help raise money for young woman after serious car accident
DELMARVA – Katelyn Claypool was on her way home from work one night when her life drastically changed. A head-on collision with a driver under the influence left Claypool with numerous injuries and a long road ahead of her. “You never know what’s going to happen, just keep your eyes open at all times you never know it could happen in the blink of an eye,” says family friend and motorcyclist, Courtney Blackmire.
Claypool’s family tells us, she had two collapsed lungs, a total of 8 broken ribs, a broken collarbone and shoulder, a punctured liver, and doctors had to remove her spleen. Luckily for Claypool, despite her injuries, she has a huge family cheering her on. “She’s just an awesome, all-around good person to be with,” says Dale Pierson, family friend, and motorcyclist. “We’re here to support all her friends and family I mean that’s what we do, somebody gets hurt or needs help, that’s what we do,” adds Rob Howard, another family friend, and motorcyclist.
That’s why motorists are coming together for Claypool, in her time of need. “It takes a village and that’s what we’re here to do, make it happen, ride for Kate,” says Tracey Pierson, another family friend, and motorcyclist.
On Saturday, her friends and family organized a fundraiser where motorcyclists and community members raised funds for her medical bills just by stopping by, or hopping on a motorcycle and making a few pit stops throughout the day. “Bikers get a bad name but as you can look around and see, when push comes to shove we get it done,” says T. Pierson.
Friends and family say seeing motorcyclists from across Delmarva show their support meant the world. “If the same thing would have happened with us she’d be standing there doing the same thing I’m doing,” says Howard. Blackmire adds, “It’s amazing how it’s one thing that can change everybody and bring us together.”
The biggest takeaway, a life lesson, “Call a ride, don’t drink and drive, this could be your little girl this could happen to,” says D. Pierson.
To help with Kate’s medical expenses, click here.
