A Vancouver family has started a fundraiser to help with the cost of bringing their son home after he suffered a “devastating” head trauma in Mexico.
According to a GoFundMe page, on a vacation in mid-April, 20-year-old Cale Hooker suffered a six-inch vertical skull fracture above his eyes, a fracture below his right eye, a grade-three concussion, and internal bleeding in his skull.
Cale underwent extensive emergency surgery at a private hospital in Mexico with his family by his side.
As his mother, father, and brother waited for Cale to be medically cleared for travel, they began asking the public for financial help in covering expenses and bringing him home via air ambulance.
On Tuesday, April 30th, the family announced his successful return to Canada along with a photo of Cale upright and managing a smile. The Hookers say they’re still expecting challenges in his recovery.
“As we navigate this uncertain path, there are many unknown risks associated with Cale’s health and recovery. The extent and possible long-term effects of this life-altering injury remain unclear,” the family wrote on the fundraising site.
“What we do know is that Cale’s resilience and determination, coupled with the support of friends, family, and compassionate individuals like you, will play a crucial role in shaping his future.”
The family set a fundraising goal of $375,000. They have not publicly shared what caused Cale’s injuries.
The Hookers describe their son as a hardworking and polite young man with a passion for skiing. They hope he regains his health and continues to explore a career in firefighting.