By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

Michael Somers of Forrest experienced something many fear: a debilitating injury from a car accident, leaving him unable to work or care for himself and family.

Since the hit and run accident where he was run off a road by a semi which happened nine years ago this month, the people in surrounding communities have reached out to help the Somers family, as they struggled with needed items insurance wouldn’t cover.

Just recently, a gofundme account was started to help the Somers family purchase a handicapped accessible van and Somers said even though they have one, it is giving out fast.

The gofundme account has already raised $17,000 and Somers said he’s looking to raise around $30,000 total.

“Right now, I’m just really overwhelmed and I didn’t think I’d get the response that I have right now,” Somers said. “I don’t think there are enough thank yous in the world to describe the outreach people have given me. It’s just amazing.”

The gofundme address is gofundme.com/tch9hh98z, where people can donate or read Michael’s story.