A heartwarming story of resilience is emerging from Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, where 5-year-old Gabe Mier is finally heading home after being hospitalized following a terrifying tractor-wagon accident during a school field trip.
Last Wednesday, Gabe and his family joined a group from his school on a trip to an apple orchard in Lafayette, Wisconsin. What was meant to be a joyful outing quickly turned into a nightmare when the tractor pulling the wagon filled with students, parents, and staff tipped over, injuring nearly two dozen people, including Gabe.
“It’s supposed to be a great family trip with all the classmates; it turned into one of the scariest days of our life,” recalled Gabe’s father, Will Mier. The family watched in anguish as a helicopter transported their son to a hospital in the Twin Cities for urgent care, reported People.
Gabe, who suffered a skull fracture and multiple bumps, bruises, and scrapes, underwent surgery for his injuries. His parents, Will and Angie Mier, held vigil by his side. “For hours on end, we just laid there — held his hand and prayed for the best,” said Will.
Despite the ordeal, Gabe’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. “I always called him my miracle baby just because of everything — he continues to prove me correct,” shared Angie. Doctors have been optimistic about his healing, and the family is hopeful that Gabe will soon be free of the large neck brace he’s been wearing to support his injuries.
“We are beyond blessed,” said Angie. “He is able to play, talk to us, giggle, and do all these things we didn’t know if they’d ever happen again.” In the meantime, Gabe is back to playing with his favorite trains and puppy, wrapped snugly in a Brewers/Packers blanket.
The Mier family expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support they’ve received from the community. “The people who have helped us, prayed for us, and been there for us, we are so blessed,” Angie said.
A fundraising page has been set up to help the family cover expenses from the accident, including the cost of the air ambulance ride. Meanwhile, the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into the cause of the crash.
Gabe’s road to recovery has been long and challenging, but his family remains hopeful and thankful for the strength he’s shown throughout this ordeal.