Tonight, there’s a homecoming in Habersham for which many people have hoped and prayed; little Liam Chappell is returning to Clarkesville following a frightening accident.
The 3-year-old was hit by a pickup truck after darting into the driveway outside his family’s home. His dad, Dale, was behind the wheel living out every parent’s worst nightmare.
Unable to stop before the rear of the truck struck his son, Chappell rushed the injured boy to Habersham Medical Center in Demorest, where an Air Life helicopter picked up Liam and flew him to Atlanta. He suffered a broken leg, fractured pelvis, and abrasions to his feet and lower back.
The little boy for whom thousands have prayed not only survived but is now even smiling. A video released by his family shows Liam playing hide and seek with his parents from his hospital bed. It was a welcome sight to those who heard about his accident, many of whom have contributed to a fund set up to help with mounting medical bills.
“Dale is his family’s only source of income, and even though he has insurance, we are not sure what all expenses they will be covering for Liam’s medical [needs] and recovery,” says Chappell’s friend and boss, Candace Crowe, of Celtic Crow Tattoo parlor in Clarkesville.
She set up a fundraiser on Facebook to help with Liam’s medical expenses. By Friday evening, more than half of the $10,000 goal had been raised.
In addition to his job as a tattoo artist, Chappell also works for the Georgia Department of Transportation. His wife, Brandy, is a full-time mom to the couple’s four children ages 2 to 17.
Crowe says the couple’s faith in the Lord and support from the local community are carrying them through this difficult time. “They have been praying and continue to ask for prayers for their little boy’s speedy recovery.”
Judging from the news of Friday’s homecoming, it appears those prayers are being answered.
