Family searching for answers after man paralyzed in crash

MEMPHIS, TN (WMC) - Daniel Goodrum was riding in the passenger seat when the vehicle he was in was t-boned. Police said the driver fled the scene.

Now, his family is trying to pick up the pieces.

"I think that's what hurts the most is he did not help my son," Goodrum's mother Sue said.

She still struggles to understand what happened. Police said the driver who ran away has since been arrested on unrelated charges while the accident remains under investigation.

"He's very depressed," Goodrum said. "The reality is that he's going to be paralyzed and be in a wheelchair. At this point, he's starting to give up hope."

Goodrum is paralyzed, has stints in his neck and eats through a feeding tube.

The driver did not have insurance, so his medical bills are not covered. Goodrum only started a new job three days before his accident.

Goodrum has two daughters and a little boy due in January. He has mobility in his arms, but he cannot move his hand. His mother said that is what hurts him the most.

"He talks about holding his little boy that's on the way," Sue Goodrum said. "That he might not be able to hold him."

Now, they are working to bring him home. They said their home is not handicap accessible, however.

"I don't even know how we are going to get him in our car," Goodrum said.

They have started a GoFundMe to help with money for a ramp, handicap accessible bathroom and a handicap accessible vehicle.

"I will sell everything I have to take care of him," Sue said.

His mother said this all happened because someone decided to drink and drive, and she has a message for everyone to remember this holiday season.

"Don't drink and drive. You hurt innocent people."

Goodrum said the family appreciates the support they have been getting for their son.

If you would like to help donate to Daniel's cause, click here.

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