MACON, Ga. — Harley Hay was in a head-on collision while traveling to Augusta on Jan. 16.
She was airlifted to the Augusta University Trauma Center where she suffered fractures in her leg and arm, and internal bleeding. Hay says she had damage to her carotid arteries that caused her to have two strokes.
She says being transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta helped her undergo a full recovery. Now, Harley-Davidson is holding 'Harleys for Harley,' a charity ride fundraiser to help Hay get back on track in life.
Kim and Tim Vaughn say seeing their daughter in the hospital was the hardest thing they've experienced.
“When you get there and realize how devastating it really was and get to the hospital and realize that your daughter can lose her life, the reality that kicks in is very tough,” Tim said.
Hay says she learned the basics of life again.
“Learning to re-walk was probably the hardest thing, besides the struggles I have with my right hand now,” Hay said.
The Vaughns say there was no other option but to care for Harley and encourage her to stay strong.
“We had to be very understanding with what she was going through personally and make sure we don't push her too hard or tell her she should be feeling a certain way,” Tim said.
Hay says her boyfriend's family helped with the idea of a fundraiser ride and the support just grew after that.
“Very grateful," Hay said. "If I didn't have the support system that I have, who really knows where I'd be?" Hay said.
The ride happens on Aug. 17 at 9 a.m. at the Harley-Davidson of Macon on Mercer University Drive.
Admission is $25 per rider and $10 per passenger. There will have live music, a raffle and free lunch.