Fundraiser Set To Help Sole Survivor Of Oklahoma EagleMed Crash

Jacqueline Sit, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- It's been nearly a year since an Eagle Med chopper went down in Kingfisher killing two people. While that crash is still under investigation, the sole survivor is struggling to move on with his life.

Mike Eccard is on a long road to recovery and not only is he struggling physically and emotionally, but financially. And now he and his family are asking for the public's help.

"I was ejected right at 50 yards, so half a football field. First thing I did was look around and check on my crew and of course they were dead," Eccard said.

Eccard relives the memories of a devastating medical helicopter crash that took two of his friends, he was the only survivor. He said his helmet saved his life.

Since the crash, Eccard has gone through a dozen surgeries and physical therapy in the midst of his recovery. He hasn't been able to work and his wife is his primary caregiver.

With the bills piling up, the father of two has endured many sleepless nights.

"I've been worrying so much about finances that it's kind of sad but I've kind of look forward to a couple of surgeries because I would have uninterrupted sleep it just lets you know how much it's weighing on my mind," Eccard said.

Long time friends and the EMS family are reaching out to help with their financial struggles through fundraisers. One fundraiser begins Sunday, July 10.

"Mike hurts physically and emotionally everyday so he doesn't need to be hurting financially," said Michael King, Edmond Police and family friend. "That is one thing that we as friends and peers and co-workers and lift that burden."

To ease that burden, what keeps Eccard going is his family. He tries to surround himself with the positive and just enjoy the family time, and everyday to him is a birthday, a Christmas a holiday.

Eccard said working as a paramedic is his passion but he doesn't know if physically he can do that job again.

Here are the details of the fundraisers:

FIRST:

FOR: The Eccard Family Fund Raiser

WHEN: Sunday July 10th, 2011 during all business hours. The fundraiser will also occur every 2nd Sunday of every month. Just mention the Eccard Family to your order taker and the rest is taken care of.

WHERE: All 7 metro area locations of Johnnie's Charcoal Broilers

SECOND:

FOR: The Eccard Family Fund Raiser

WHEN: Friday, July 15, 2011 and Saturday, July 16, 2011

WHERE: Two locations:

Roy household located at 4200 NW 53rd St, OKC, OK, 73112

White household located at 10116 S Fairview Dr, OKC, OK 73159

An account has been established at Tinker Federal Credit Union to help this family.

Mike Eccard's Official Page

Related Story: Friend, Family, Medical Community Mourn Loss of EagleMed Crash Victims