THE Carrum Downs community is rallying around a young woman who is facing life-changing injuries. More than $120,000 has been raised for Carrum Downs woman Ashley Howlett. She suffered horrific injuries after she was struck by a motorbike on McCormicks Road last month. Howlett was hit while walking her dog. A fundraiser was started by her aunt to assist the victim and her family during her recovery.
“As I write my beautiful niece is being prepped for surgery to amputate part or all of one leg. Every inch of her angelic body is battered, bruised, and broken. Her remaining leg has breathtaking damage. Her organs are struggling to function. Adding to this she has sadly suffered a stroke. Yet, even after all of this, her little heart continues to beat, fighting to stay with us,” the fundraiser reads. “This is not just a plea for help; it’s a call to anyone who knows the power of love, community, and resilience. Ashley’s road to recovery will be long and painful. She faces more surgeries, months in the hospital, and a lifetime of challenges as she heals from these life-altering injuries.”
A message posted by Howlett’s mother on 25 October shared some positive news. “Ashley continues to make small progress and despite the pain she was asking me if everyone else is OK. Her concern wasn’t for herself, it was for her family and friends. That’s the incredible lady she is – always wanting others to feel good,” she wrote. “Ashley told me today ‘when the pain stops, I will beat this’ and I believe her. She is strong. She is capable. She is resilient. With all of you supporting and cheering her on, she will be unstoppable.”
To donate visit gofundme.com/f/supporting-ashley-howlett-the-long-journey-ahead
First published in the Frankston Times – 5 November 2024