Former Carroll University Athlete Loses Legs In Accident

WAUKESHA, WI—A former Carroll University athlete is recovering after a hit-and-run accident in New Orleans on Feb. 16 that resulted in the loss of both legs.

Doctors amputed Adam Sivia's legs to save his life, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser set up by Sivia's brother, David Sivia. Adam Sivia lives in New Orleans.

As of Tuesday, the GoFundMe had raised more than $144, 500. Patch reached out to Adam Sivia and David Sivia for comment.

A driver in New Orleans has been charged with one count of hit-and-run causing serious injury and two counts of negligent injury in the accident, according to a report from WISN 12.

Adam Sivia was moved to a hospital with a physical therapy facility, where he will remain for several weeks, the GoFundMe said.

"Adam is the most genuine, jovial, down-to-earth person and serves as a rock in so many people's lives," David Sivia wrote on the fundraiser page. "His impact has been felt from all over. Everyone who has met him has been affected by the radiance of positive energy that Adam has always given."

Adam Sivia is currently an elementary school teacher and high school football coach in New Orleans. He has worked with students from kindergarten to high school.

Several years before moving to the Crescent City, Adam Sivia was a student at Carroll where he was a linebacker for the football team.

"He was a hard worker and very well-liked on the team. He put forth a tremendous effort and had that passion," said Mark Krzykowski, assistant athletic director at Carroll University, who was the head coach of the football team when Sivia played.

"He has a heart for people," he told Patch.

Silva also had a great sense of humor while at Carroll University, Krzykowski added.

Krzykowski said Sivia remained in touch with several teammates through social media and other means. He heard the news about Sivia after one of his former teammates came up to Krzykowski at a basketball game.

"I know Adam will overcome this and persevere," Krzykowski said.

He was moved by those rallying around Sivia after the accident. Sivia is getting support from family and friends and many different people, Krzykowski said. "It is a true testament to who he is and the impact he has on people."

'Not The Final Chapter'

While the length of Siva's recovery is still unclear, his medical expenses and need for future assistance are immense, according to the GoFundMe.

David Sivia set up an account not only to generate financial assistance but also "to show Adam there are countless people out there rooting for his recovery," the page said.

"If there is anyone who has the drive and motivation to overcome any obstacle, it's Adam. He is a risk-taker. He is a warrior. He is the strongest-willed person I know.

"Whether you know him as Adam, A-Siv, King Hawg, Siv, Mr. Sivia, or Coach Sivia please know this is not the final chapter, the story is just beginning. The road will be long and hard, but Adam will be an even bigger inspiration to everyone he knows.

"Every Phoenix rises from the ashes, this will be no different."

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.