A West Gardiner woman seriously injured in a head-on crash in August continues to recover from her injuries as friends plan a Saturday fundraiser to help her cover mounting medical costs.

Meagan Damon, 33, suffered numerous broken bones in the crash, including a broken pelvis and vertebrae, that will involve a protracted healing period, said friend and co-worker Wendi Boudreau, who is helping organize the fundraiser for Damon.

“She’s recovering,” Boudreau said.

Damon was unable to comment for this story, according to Boudreau.

Damon was hurt Aug. 26 when her car collided head-on with a car being driven by 28-year-old Eric Cooper, of Randolph, on Route 9 in Chelsea. Police said Cooper crossed the centerline, though the investigation to learn why is ongoing.

Sgt. Frank Hatch, of the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office, said this week that Cooper has been charged with operating after suspension and driving to endanger. Hatch said additional charges are possible once the investigation is complete.

Boudreau said Cooper’s insurance would not be enough to cover Damon’s medical expenses. The fundraiser is being organized to help offset those costs and to cover living expenses while Damon is out of work.

“Insurance companies are very slow,” Boudreau said. “She’ll be out for quite a while.”

The fundraiser is set for noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at American Legion Post 4 at 46 Griffin St. in Gardiner. The Red Barn in Augusta and Aunt Gin’s in Whitefield, along with a number of individuals, are providing the food. Boudreau said cash donations will be accepted for the potluck supper.

“We are not selling tickets,” she said. “People can just show up.”

There will be a 50/50 raffle and silent auction for items donated by local businesses, Boudreau said. There also will be raffles for smaller items. Boudreau, who will tend bar, will donate all of her tips to Damon.

“It’s just getting the community together to do something,” she said.

The crash occurred around 7:30 a.m. as Damon drove her 2004 Subaru station wagon north on Route 9. Cooper, driving south in a 2000 Honda Accord, crossed the centerline and hit Damon’s car near Skyline Drive, police said.

Firefighters had to free both drivers from their vehicles.

Cooper’s driver’s license was suspended at the time of the crash.

Damon has a young son “who is the light of her life,” Boudreau said.

“Meagan is a great spirit and always willing to help others,” she said.

Craig Crosby — 621-5642

ccrosby@centralmaine.com

Twitter: @CraigCrosby4

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