7-Year-Old-Sister Of Martin Richard Undergoes 11th Surgery Since Boston Marathon Bombings
Seven-year-old Jane Richard underwent her 11th surgery on Thursday, after losing her left leg in the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15th.
Jane is the younger sister of 8-year-old Martin Richard, whose photo of him holding a sign saying "Peace. No more hurting people." circulated around news outlets in the days and weeks following the bombings. Unfortunately, Martin was killed in the attack.
The Richard family were spectators at the marathon. Jane and Martin's parents were also among the 200 people who were injured that day.
"While she has more trips to the O.R. ahead of her, last night's operation marked an important milestone, as doctors were finally able to close the wound created when the bomb took her left leg below the knee," the Richards wrote in a statement. "Part of the procedure involved preparing Jane's injured leg to eventually be fitted for a prosthesis."
The family admitted that there are challenges ahead, and according to ABC News, psychologists agree.
"When the family ultimately settles in to their new normal, there will be waves of emotion to cope with," Dr. Paula K. Rauch told ABC.
The family expressed their gratitude for the public's outpouring of support during their difficult time and said their focus remains on "healing from [their] injuries, both physical and emotional."