A young father left paralyzed by a four-wheeler accident remains determined to get his life back despite a major setback: A safe holding his life savings was stolen from his Maryland home.
After 26-year-old John McElroy lost control of his four-wheeler in May, he was paralyzed from his chest down.
“He did stuff nobody would do,” friend Zach Winters said of McElroy’s adventurous nature. “That night was just a fluke thing, but he’s been riding four-wheelers and dirt bikes longer than I’ve even known him.”
McElry had to move into a new space that would accommodate him and his 2-year-old son, Adam.
“I think the toughest part is taking care of my son, seeing him do things I wish I could still do with him,” McElroy said.
But things were going well for the most part. McElroy’s spirits were improving. He sold belongings including his dirt bike and car to help cover his medical expenses and save for a vehicle modified with hand controls so he can drive again.
McElroy believes the thieves wanted his prescription pain pills, which were in the safe with about $8,000. He believes the thieves may be acquaintances.
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A GoFundMe page was established to help McElroy replace the money he lost and get back on track to buying the car he needs to regain independence.
“Having a vehicle is another step to me being normal again,” he said.
