Kaitlyn McGinnis, a junior at Bob Jones, was a passenger in a car which left the road on Tennessee Hwy 11 near Minor Hill, Tennessee, on the Friday of October 19 at around 8:00 pm. The driver’s inexperience was the main factor; however, speed was a contributing factor as well according to TN State Trooper Wynn who investigated the scene. The roof of the car collapsed due to impact with a tree crushing the right side of Kaitlyn’s head. No evidence was found that another vehicle contributed to the accident.

 

Tennessee emergency procedure relieved pressure on her brain, saving her life momentarily. Kaitlyn is still  on life support with profound brain injury. She is paralyzed on her left side and is sick with pneumonia. McGinnis is still fighting for her life, and this is just the start of a long period of healing ahead of her. Karlie Johnson, a close friend of McGinnis, said,”I was in a shock when I first heard the news about Kaitlyn. It didn’t feel real. I just knew the only thing that I could do for her was be at her side.” Surgery was soon performed to reduce the swelling of her brain. Breaths are being held and posts and tweets asking prayers for Kaitlyn are infiltrating social media sites.

 

Kaitlyn is described as being “one of the sweetest girls I have ever met” and having “the craziest and humorous personality” by Fleur Jones, another close friend of McGinnis. “Seeing my friend and not being able to talk to her was one of the most difficult situations I’ve ever experienced,” says Sarah Newman.

 

Close friends of Kaitlyn did not just stop at going to Nashville to visit her. They have taken the initiative to continue the support of Kaitlyn throughout Bob Jones. On Monday, they asked everyone to wear pink, McGinnis’ favorite color. On Tuesday, students and teachers held a prayer service in the courtyard.

 

Currently ribbons are being sold for $1 in order to raise money for the McGinnis’ family to help pay hotel, travel, and medical expenses. Stations run by friends of McGinnis can be found during lunch in the school’s cafeteria near the registers. Donations are being taken at the front office. Kaitlyn’s family truly and deeply appreciates everyone’s thoughts, prayers, donations, and love for Kaitlyn. They also hope that good memories of Kaitlyn will assuage your sadness and grief as much as possible.