Fundraiser for woman injured by rollercoaster fails to hit target

A fundraiser that was set up for a woman who was seriously injured in a rollercoaster accident has failed to hit target.

Last month, tragedy struck at the Melbourne Royal Show in Australia when Shylah Rodden was left in critical condition by a theme park ride.

Although the Royal Melbourne Hospital confirmed the 26-year-old's condition has since been changed from critical to serious, she's said to have suffered a 'brain injury' that will impact her life moving forward.

There have been mixed reports surrounding the circumstances of the accident, which took place on September 25.

Facebook

Victoria Police reported that it appeared Rodden was struck by a carriage after walking on the rollercoaster track to retrieve a dropped phone.

Horrific footage of the impact was shared on TikTok, showing the moment she was struck by the ride and dragged nine metres into the air before plummeting to the ground.

A lawyer for Rodden's family has since told the Herald Sun that they're not ruling out taking legal action against the show and the rollercoaster's operators.

Aki Munir of Arnold Thomas & Becker said: "We are investigating issuing proceedings against the Melbourne Show and the ride operator. It will be an action in negligence."

The news has caused a backlash online – despite the fact Rodden is in hospital and fighting for her life, many people have suggested she should never have gone against safety measures to get her phone.

This may explain why the GoFundMe page, set up by family friend Sylvia Dess, has failed to reach its target.

The goal was to raise $20,000 to help Rodden and her relatives, but it's only made just over $9,000 so far.

In the description, Dess wrote: "I would like to raise as much money as I can for Shylah’s 24 hour care, rehab, therapy, possible equipment as Shylah has suffered brain injury, changes that will need to be made around her house (shower and toilet).

"Family & friends are devastated during this crucial time and thank everyone for all the kind wishes and donations. It has not went unnoticed."

9News

Not everyone has been critical of the situation, however, with hundreds of people sharing messages of support for Rodden and her family in this difficult time.

As said by one: "Life has obstacles and I hope she overcomes hers. Prayers to her and her family. I hope you raise more than you expected and many people share this. People can be kind."

Another wrote: "Shylah I’m so sorry that this has happened to you. I send my love to you and your family and pray that you make a full recovery."

If you have a story you want to tell, send it to UNILAD via [email protected]