A Nevada mother of three is facing a long road to recovery after losing both of her legs in a devastating train accident in Arizona last month.
According to reports, 42-year-old Sonja Celius was struck by a train near 27th Avenue and Thomas Road in west Phoenix on April 25. Authorities said officers responded to the scene shortly after 9 a.m. and found Celius suffering from life-threatening injuries.
Doctors were forced to amputate both of her legs following the crash, leaving her family heartbroken as they try to process the tragedy.
Celius’ daughter, Kayla Hicklen, described receiving the news as “one of the most traumatizing pieces of news” she has ever heard. She said the family spent days crying and struggling to understand how their lives changed so suddenly.
“She’s a walking miracle because she’s alive after being hit by a train,” Hicklen said, while also expressing sadness that her mother will never walk again.
Celius, who was visiting Arizona from Nevada at the time of the accident, remains hospitalized as police continue investigating what led up to the collision. Officials have not yet released details explaining how she ended up on the tracks.
Her family also revealed that Celius is a mother of three children, including a 16-year-old son. Loved ones have since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical costs, travel expenses, and support for her youngest child while she recovers.
The rail crossing where the incident occurred has reportedly been flagged in the past for safety concerns and potential improvements.
