Indian-origin UC Berkeley student paralysed after fall at frat party
An Indian-origin University of California, Berkeley, student was left paralysed from the waist down after she fell from an external staircase during a fraternity party, just three weeks shy of graduating.
Bandna Bhatti, 21, who was pursuing data science, was attending a gathering at the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity house on Cal Day, an annual open house event for incoming students and their families, when she slipped and fell from a metal staircase. The fall, estimated at about 12 feet, left her with severe injuries, including a spinal fracture, brain hematoma, and a torn dura (the protective membrane around the spinal cord) resulting in spinal fluid leakage.
According to reports from California-based television station KTVU, Bhatti landed on her head in a back alley. She was found approximately 15 minutes later and brought inside, but was reportedly asked to leave soon after. Her friends, unaware of the gravity of her injuries, brought her back to her apartment. It was only seven hours later that emergency services were called.
Bhatti remains hospitalised as her family, friends, and the wider UC Berkeley community rally around her. Her sister, Sonya Bhatti, launched a GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign to assist with mounting medical costs. 'Our beloved sister, Bandna, only 21 years old… worked so hard. Then our world was turned upside down,' she wrote. 'We received the kind of call no family ever wants to get.'
In a statement, UC Berkeley, said: 'Our thoughts are with the student, their family, loved ones and friends during this tough time. We are following our protocols to offer support.' An investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Phi Kappa Tau CEO Matt Arnold also extended his sympathies. 'Our thoughts are with the individual and their loved ones during this challenging time,' he said in a statement. 'The health, safety and well-being of all individuals in our community remain our highest priority.'
As Bhatti begins a long road to recovery, her friends recently participated in a half-marathon to raise funds, asking supporters to pledge $5 (Rs 421) per mile. 'Bandna is a brilliant, compassionate, and resilient young woman. Now, she faces a long and difficult road ahead,' read the fundraiser's description.
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