Overview
- On July 18, Ashley Taunton stopped on I‑95 in Hopkinton, R.I., to help three teenagers after a hydroplaning crash and was struck by a second vehicle after pushing one teen out of the way.
- Taunton, a 42‑year‑old mother of three and certified nursing assistant, suffered severe leg and internal injuries, a collapsed lung, and underwent multiple surgeries and a medically induced coma before leaving the hospital in mid‑August.
- A friend set up a GoFundMe to cover medical costs, travel and household expenses while Taunton recovers and her husband is on leave, and more than 1,200 donors have contributed to the page.
- Taylor Swift made a verified $50,000 donation to the fundraiser on August 28, leaving the message, “Wishing you the best recovery possible and sending love to your family!” signed “Taylor,” which spurred many additional small gifts.
- The family says the funds have helped prepay bills and cover immediate needs as Taunton faces at least a year of rehabilitation, and the case highlights how U.S. families often rely on crowdfunding to fill gaps in care and income after traumatic injuries.