GoFundMe seeks help for motorcyclist critically hurt in Manatee crash
The family of a Parrish man critically injured in a motorcycle crash earlier this month is turning to the community for support as he undergoes multiple surgeries and a long recovery, according to a GoFundMe created on his behalf.
A fundraiser for 28-year-old Ian Oviatt says he suffered extensive life-threatening injuries on Nov. 9 when a car pulled into his path on State Road 64 in Manatee County.
The Florida Highway Patrol said the crash happened around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of River Heritage Boulevard, where a 75-year-old Bradenton woman attempted to turn left and entered his path. Troopers said Oviatt tried to avoid the collision but struck the right side of the Toyota Corolla before being flown to HCA Florida Blake Hospital.
The GoFundMe, organized by his girlfriend, Cheyenne Hartlet, outlines a long list of severe injuries. She wrote that Oviatt was thrown more than 60 feet from his motorcycle and injured despite wearing protective gear, including a helmet, padded jacket, gloves and boots. According to the fundraiser, he fractured vertebrae in his neck and destroyed another vertebra that will need to be replaced. The fundraiser also says he suffered brain swelling and several broken ribs that compressed his lungs.
Hartlet said both of Oviatt’s arms were broken in different places. His left leg was broken and twisted. Surgeons amputated his right leg above the knee because it could not be saved. His pelvis also split three inches in the crash, according to the fundraiser.
Parrish man faces long recovery after motocycle crash
Oviatt spent his first two days on full life support and remains on partial support as doctors continue treatment, Hartlet wrote. “Mentally, physically, this will be a long ride to recovery,” Hartlet said, calling each day “critical.”
Hartlet described Oviatt as an “excellent big brother,” a leader and someone who “keeps a positive view on life.”
“Ian is my world. Everyone loves him,” she wrote. “He walks around with a smile on his face, compassionate, always willing to help anyone.”
The fundraiser says Oviatt does not have medical insurance and will need several surgeries and intensive therapy. Donations will help cover living expenses, including vehicle payments, utilities and insurance, during his recovery.
As of Friday, the GoFundMe has raised nearly $14,000 toward its $18,000 goal through 115 donations.
