Fundraiser held for survivor of fatal accident that claimed her husband, extended family

TEMPLE, Texas (KWTX) - On Aug. 6 Michelle Yglecias was traveling to New Mexico with her husband, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law. They were tragically involved in a fatal car accident that claimed the lives of four people, including her husband and extended family in Lynn County, just outside Lubbock.

Michelle was the only survivor. It left her with a broken neck, broken collar bone and extensive abdominal injuries.

On Sunday her sister, Deborah Slaughter, arranged a benefit fundraiser at Bo’s Barn to cover all of Michelle’s medical bills and living expenses. On that same day Michelle was released from University Medical Center in Lubbock after spending more than four weeks in the hospital.

Those who attended the fundraising event could participate in both a live and silent auction with proceeds going directly towards Michelle’s recovery and well-being.

“Our maiden name is Worleys and this shows that the Yglecias are very loved and we’re very blessed,” Slaughter said.

Around 600 people donated items for silent and live auction, including Rhonda Dunahoo with Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. She donated a cooler filled with Coke merchandise in honor of Yglecias’ husband who died in the crash.

”Bert Yglecias worked for us from 1981 until 2014,” Dunahoo said. “He was a big part of Waco Coca Cola at the time. He made a big impact on all of us.”

Meanwhile more than 70 volunteers assisted with everything from serving food to running the bake sale tables.

”I have been the girls’ dance teacher for over 20 years,” volunteer Gabrielle Parkey said. “Michelle’s daughter and the cousins all came to my studio. When I heard about this tragic accident I wanted to help.”

The Yglecias family says they’re grateful for all this support as Michelle now begins her recovery process at home.

”We appreciate and are completely overwhelmed by the amount of support we’ve gotten from everyone we know, everyone that’s here today and everyone that plans on coming,” Michelle’s stepson Joey Yglecias said.

The benefit also included live music and food for all attending.

To donate or find other ways you can help, contact Slaughter at dslaughter906@gmail.com

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