Doctor expresses uncertainty about the girl wounded in the church shooting's outcome
In the aftermath of the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, the city is left reeling. The attack, which took place on August 27, claimed the lives of two innocent children, 10-year-old Harper Moyski and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel, and left 18 people injured, including 12-year-old Sophia Forchas.
Sophia, who was shot in the head, has been in the intensive care unit for the past 10 days. The medical team has kept her sedated in a medically-induced coma to manage the pressure and swelling in her brain. The bullet that hit her is lodged in her right occipital lobe, causing damage to some critical vessels. However, there have been signs of improvement, as Sophia has shown some slight movement in her right leg and has been opening her eyes.
Dr. Walt Galicich, a doctor at Hennepin Healthcare, is treating Sophia. Tom Forchas, Sophia's father, has expressed his gratitude towards Dr. Galicich and the first responders for saving his daughter's life. A GoFundMe account has been established to cover Sophia's medical care, recovery, trauma counseling, family support services, and lost wages. As of Friday afternoon, the account has raised nearly $1 million.
The shooter responsible for the attack was identified as Robin Westman, a 23-year-old transgender man. Westman fired multiple weapons through the windows of the church during a service, before taking his own life on a nearby parking lot.
Harper Moyski, the bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old, was adored by her younger sister. She had a variety of hobbies, including cooking and participating in any sport she was allowed to play. Fletcher Merkel, an 8-year-old boy with a passion for fishing, will be remembered for his infectious smile and zest for life.
In the wake of this tragedy, Harper's parents are focused on healing and hope that their daughter's memory will inspire action to prevent future shootings. The medical team continues to work tirelessly to help Sophia recover, offering a glimmer of hope in these difficult times. The community of Minneapolis stands together, united in grief and determination.
