Bee Spring Man On Road To Recovery After Serious Accident: Upcoming Benefit To Help Family

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
A Bee Spring man is on the road to recovery after he was critically injured in a rollover crash that occurred on December 26, 2016. Mitch Saltsman was ejected from his pickup truck in the accident and his life was in question.

According to his wife Becky, who is a teacher at South Edmonson Elementary, Mitch came home from the hospital on January 13 and is making progress as he fights to recover.

"The therapists are amazed at the progress that he has made in such a short time," Becky said. "SKY (Rehap Center) wants to do a success story about him."

Mitch's life threatening injuries included a traumatic brain injury and several fractures in his neck, spine, leg, and hand. Medical professionals estimate that he will be unable to work for an entire year; maybe longer.

​"He is temporarily in a wheelchair and will have to continue outpatient therapy," said Becky. "We have several upcoming doctor appointments and are hoping that he won't need any surgeries.  

Friends and family have organized a benefit auction event on their behalf to help with immediate medical expenses and to help provide aid in the absence of Mitch's income.

"I'm sure health insurance will cover most of the expenses, but now that its 2017 we have to meet our deductible and pay a percentage until a certain amount is met," Becky added. "That, in addition to regular monthly bills, minus one income have placed a financial burden on us."

The benefit is scheduled to take place on February 5, 2017 beginning at 3 PM at the EC Community Center.  Anyone wishing to make a donation can contact event organizer April Hennion via email at [email protected] or 270-597-7161.

Monetary donations, as well as donations for the auction, cake walk, or concession stand would be much appreciated. If you'd like to volunteer on the day of the event, simply attend in person and you'll be welcomed. Modern Woodmen of America will also be on hand to match the funds raised during the benefit up to $2500.
Auction items include overnight stays, vacation rental in the Smoky Mountains, quilts, bulldozer work, and various other goods and services provided by local merchants. 

Several local gospel singers and churches will be on hand to provide good entertainment, including Bee Spring, Jock, Anetta, and Oak Grove choirs.

Becky said that it was twenty years ago when Mitch was in University of Louisville Hospital with an electrical burn of 7200 volts suffered in a work related accident and last December a dump truck bed came down on him, where he narrowly escaped.  

"People say he has nine lives.  I believe it's the grace of God."