Jacob Hurl, 22, was just one of many workers left trapped after the partial collapse of 555 Teeple Terrace on December 11, 2020. Now, as Hurl has been released from hospital, a GoFundMe has been created to cover the expenses of his recovery.
Hurl was trapped for many hours beneath the rubble at 555 Teeple Terrace. From there, he was admitted to critical care at LHSC. Doctors first thought Hurl might lose his life. Later they believed he would survive but would lose both his legs. After 28 days in the hospital, Hurl has now been fully discharged.
Hurl's road to recovery is expected to be long and expensive. In response, a GoFundMe was launched by Angela Hodgson to help cover the costs of physical supports for Hurl's home as well as to assist with the mental impact of the traumatic event.
"I am not too often truly inspired, but this young 22-year-old has demonstrated courage, strength, determination and selflessness," Hodgson wrote on the fundraising page. "I am truly in awe over what he has gone through from the moment of the sound of the collapse to the present day; his optimistic outlook for his future is always expressed when he shares his experiences."
The fundraiser was launched on January 11 with a goal of $10,000. As of January 14, the community has raised over $15,000.
Four others were injured in the collapse, including Hurl. The collapse also killed two men, Henry Harder, 26, and John Martens, 21.
The caused of the collapse remains under investigation.
-With files from Miranda Chant and Ruby Sweeney