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Buffalo woman recovering from officer-involved crash needs your help

Posted at 3:16 PM, Jun 03, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-04 09:50:40-04

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — 29-year-old Chelsea Ellis suffered major injuries after being hit by a Buffalo Police SUV on her way home. Her family is calling her recovery a miracle and they need donations to help pay for the next step.

"She gave a lot of love to everybody all the time and a little love back right now is so much appreciated," said Cindy Marino, Ellis's mother.

Ellis is currently at ECMC receiving care, but hopes to spend the next three months at Craig Hospital in Colorado for rehabilitation. Between travel and treatment, the cost is around $500,000 and is not covered by her insurance.

"She is a miracle, a living and hopefully walking some day miracle. We have great hope for her to start to resume some normal life," said Marino.

Her supporters call themselves "Chelsea's Army" they have a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members. Her army has started a GoFundMe Page to help raise money for the medical costs. They have more than $100,000 and need to hit $250,000 by June 4th.

"It's not exactly cheap, but we need to get that done for her," said Dr. Terry McLaughlin, Chaplain and close family friend.

Ellis has lived in Buffalo for the past 10 years working as a missionary and helping out the refugee population. To donate, click here.