LTHS Graduate Shatters 3 Vertebrae In 'Freak Accident'

LOCKPORT, IL — Crest Hill resident and recent Lockport Township High School graduate Dustin Lelak is recovering from surgery after a "freak accident" which shattered three of his vertebrae, his family told Patch Tuesday.

Dustin's sister Rebekah said Dustin was first taken to Silver Cross Hospital on Sunday where he was told three of his vertebrae were "completely shattered."

"The doctors told him he was very lucky to be alive," Rebeckah said.

A GoFundMe has been created to help with Dustin's recovery. As of Tuesday, over $8,000 had been raised.

Dustin, 19, was transferred to Loyola University Medical Center where he underwent a six-hour surgery on Tuesday, Rebekah said.

"There are two rods on each side of his spine, and six screws on each side," she said. Dustin's T-12 vertebrae was shattered into three, she said, and several of his vertebrae are now fused together after the surgery.

"They're going to try and have him walk tomorrow," Rebekah said.

"Our family wants to thank you all for your love, support, and donations. Dustin has a long road ahead of him for recovery. We don’t know where it will lead yet, but all the help is very appreciated," Dustin's mom, Lisa, wrote on the GoFundMe.

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