The family of a man who was paralyzed when a car crashed into his Crystal Lake home in July is holding a fundraiser at the Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove.
Angelo Pleotis, who is still in hospital rehabilitating from his injuries, was a frequent ski jumper in Norge, said his son, Phillip Pleotis.
The event at Norge this Sunday will include ski jumpers, five bands, a full bar, bounce houses, a silent auction of sports memorabilia and several raffle opportunities, Phillip Pleotis said.
The latter includes a “tennis ball race” where 100 tennis balls will be rolled down a hill, he said.
Shortly after the accident, a car went through the walls of his house, doctors indicated that Angelo Pleotis may not be able to walk again.
“We’re just trying to find a way to help my dad,” Phillip Pleotis said. “We don’t know how long this rehab will take. There are a lot of moving parts. But we want to make sure he can live comfortably, or as long as he can.”
Phillip said the entire Pleotis family has been going to Norge for roughly 30 years, and after pitching an idea to Norge’s owners about an event, they said the Pleotises had their full support, Phillip said.
Crystal Lake police issued warrants in August for the driver of the vehicle that crashed into Angelo Pleotis’ home, Connor Kirkpatrick of Crystal Lake. The warrants issued were for aggravated reckless driving, reckless conduct and criminal damage to property over $100,000, according to the police department’s news release at the time.
The family also has a civil lawsuit pending against Kirkpatrick alleging negligence and seeking more than $50,000 in damages.
Philip said the family had had a “tough, emotional and stressful” past few weeks and it was still early in Angelo’s rehabilitation. Phillip said it was especially hard for Angelo not to see his grandchildren. All the facilities he’s been to so far have only allowed visitors 18 and over.
“The whole event on Sunday goes straight to Dad,” said Phillip. “We hope to see everyone who can make it out there, but the community has already been so great and we want them to know it’s appreciated.”
The event in Norge will start at 10:30 on Sunday. Admission will be $20, but free for children. Those interested can contact the Norge Ski Club at norgeskiclub.org.
