Community Rallies For Waltham High School Student In A Coma

WALTHAM, MA — The community is rallying to support a Waltham High School junior after he was hit by a truck on Saturday, damaging his brain and putting him into a coma.

In one day, more than 260 people donated $15,505 to help his family cover Matthew DeOlivia's surgery and recovery and hospital costs.

"Matthew’s family is overwhelmed with the very generous donations and support of the local community, family, and friends," said Kevin Meade a day after taking to the crowd source online fundraising platform GoFundMe.

Since his crash, Matthew has had surgery to relieve pressure on his brain and is in critical condition in a coma at Lahey Clinic in Burlington.

"Matthews parents, Neri and Alberto are wonderful people, who both work for me at Waltham Embroidery and Screen Printing," said Meade in the post explaining that Matthew also works for him part-time.

Meade said Matthew planned to enlist in the army after he graduates in 2021, but noted doctors were optimistic about his recovery.

"Matthew has a long road ahead of him," said Meade.

More: Matthew DeOliveria's GoFundMe