$33K Fundraiser Supports Mother Who Was Impaled By Branch While Driving To Get Ice Cream

LOVETTSVILLE, VA — Last weekend, Grace Costello drove her 4-year-old daughter to get ice cream. On the way there, a tree fell on their car. A branch pierced the windshield and impaled Costello.

Costello was pinned in the car. She was later flown to nearby hospital, where doctors have performed several surgeries.

Now, a GoFundMe organized by a family friend has raised more than $33,000. The organizers hope the funds will cover some of Costello's medical bills, and provide psychological help for her daughter.

Costello's daughter, Gia, was in the backseat when the branch impaled her mother. Gia was not harmed in the crash.

"Grace and Gia coached each other through this traumatic event," wrote Tatum Gouny, who is organizing the GoFundMe.

Grace Costello has undergone at least three surgeries since the event, Gouny said. She has also had multiple transfusions due to the blood loss.

"We are unsure when Grace will be able to return to work as she has a long road of recovery ahead of her. Grace is without any income until she is able to return to work," Gouny wrote on the GoFundMe. She also noted that Grace Costello is a single mother who supports 4-year-old Gia on her own.

Victoria Costello is Grace's sister and Gia's aunt.

"Being out of work with this incredibly long road of recovery ahead is something that's going to impact them tremendously," Victoria Costello told WUSA9. "She's got purpose and has a lot to do on this Earth."

Nearly 500 people donated to the GoFundMe within the first four days. Many of them left supportive messages on the website, urging the family to remain strong after the traumatic experience.

"I have a daughter named Gia and can't imagine the uncertainty and worry your daughter is going through," Robert Pitcock wrote in a comment. "This is to let your Gia know people care and wish her mom speedy recovery."

Anyone interested in donating to the Costello family can visit their GoFundMe. Gouny has posted several updates about Grace Costello's condition throughout the week.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.