Accident Takes Man's Legs, But Not His Hope
NBCPhiladelphia.com
It seemed like any other night for Al Haubert. On June 23, the 58-year old was leaving the Academy of Music, where he had worked as a stagehand for 30 years. What happened next, would change his life forever.
“I watched as the taxi came right at me and he didn’t even move,” said Haubert. “I couldn’t get away.”
Haubert was struck by an out of control taxi. Rescue workers rushed him to the hospital in grave condition.
"I was D.O.A. at Jefferson Hospital," he said.
Miraculously, Haubert was brought back to life, but not without some devastating damage. His right leg, pelvis, left shoulder, and upper arm were crushed while his left leg was amputated below his knee.
Despite everything, the grandfather is grateful to be alive.
“I still had my life and had somewhere to go. I had a family to live for,” Haubert said.
Since the accident, Haubert has spent months recovering at the Angela Jane Acute Rehabilitation Center. He’s also getting much needed emotional recovery through living with his son Al Jr. and his family.
“Without my children and family I don’t know where I’d be,” Haubert said.
His family isn’t the only ones lending a helping hand. Members of the Stagehands Union in Philadelphia, which Al has been apart of for over 35 years, are throwing a benefit at the Academy of Music Thursday. The benefit will include food, entertainment and an auction with proceeds going toward Haubert’s mounting medical bills.
While its unlikely that Haubert will ever walk again, the support shown from his friends and family has helped to lift his spirits.
“I’m just touched so much,” said Haubert. “Words don’t say enough.”
Posted Wednesday, Oct 28, 2009 - 11:17 PM EST
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