A fun-filled night in Jefferson National Forest turned into a life-changing event for 18-year-old Ashton Hodge and his friends.
Thanks to the quick thinking and courageous actions of his best friend, Matthew Leiser, Ashton’s life was saved after a terrifying sledding accident left him critically injured.
The Sledding Accident That Changed Everything
Last Saturday, a group of friends, including Ashton Hodge and Matthew Leiser, set out to enjoy a snowy evening in Virginia’s Jefferson National Forest.
What began as a joyful outing took a tragic turn when the pair, sharing a sledding tube, struck a dirt mound at high speed.
- The Accident: The impact launched Leiser to the right, while Hodge was propelled headfirst into a nearby tree.
- Immediate Concerns: Upon landing, Leiser initially thought his friend was unharmed. However, seeing blood streaming from Ashton’s nose and ears, he quickly realized the severity of the injuries.
Quick Action by a Best Friend
Leiser’s immediate response played a critical role in Ashton’s survival. His presence of mind and first-aid knowledge were crucial during those initial moments.
- Vitals Check: Leiser quickly assessed Ashton’s condition, checking his vitals and ensuring his airways were clear.
- Emergency Transport: Without waiting for an ambulance, the group drove Hodge to LewisGale Medical Center, saving valuable time in the critical aftermath of the accident.
Doctors confirmed that Leiser’s prompt actions were instrumental in keeping Ashton alive. Hodge suffered a fractured skull and two brain bleeds, injuries that could have been fatal without immediate intervention.
Ashton’s Recovery Journey
While Ashton Hodge’s life was saved, his recovery journey is far from over. His family has been by his side, witnessing both small victories and ongoing challenges.
- Initial Condition: Hodge was placed in a medically induced coma to manage his critical condition and allow his brain to heal.
- Improvement: Nearly a week after the accident, Hodge has made remarkable progress. According to his sister, Olivia Howell, he opened his eyes and waved—a heartwarming moment for the family.
- Next Steps: Ashton remains in the intensive care unit but is expected to transition to the progressive care unit and eventually rehabilitation.
Community Support and Hope
The Hodge family has expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the local community. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with Ashton’s growing medical expenses.
- How to Help: Donations to the GoFundMe campaign are helping alleviate the financial burden, allowing the family to focus on Ashton’s recovery.
- Prayers and Positivity: Olivia Howell has asked for continued prayers, emphasizing the strength and resilience Ashton has shown.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Accident | Collision with a tree resulting in critical injuries |
| Injuries | Fractured skull and two brain bleeds |
| Immediate Action | Vitals checked and airways cleared by friend |
| Medical Care | Transported to LewisGale Medical Center |
| Progress | Opened eyes and waved a week after the accident |
| Next Steps | Progressive care and rehabilitation |
The terrifying sledding accident that critically injured 18-year-old Ashton Hodge serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of friendship, quick thinking, and community support.
Thanks to his best friend’s heroic efforts, Ashton is on the road to recovery. As the community rallies around the Hodge family, this story highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of compassion during life’s most challenging moments.