Local

Aimee Copeland receives $19,000 toward recovery efforts

SNELLVILLE, Ga. — Aimee Copeland's hometown of Snellville showed its support for her in a big way Tuesday night, as her family received an estimated $19,000 donated by residents during a fundraiser last month.

"God bless you all. Thank you so much for your generosity and your hard work," said Andy Copeland, Aimee's father, at Snellville City Hall while meeting with organizers of the event.

"I wish she could be here to accept the check, but there will be a day that she'll be here to do even greater things than accepting a check. I hope one day that she'll be the one giving out checks," he added.

It was just one week ago that Aimee Copeland was released from the hospital, after doctors were forced to amputate her leg, foot and both hands, which were ravaged by a flesh-eating bacteria.

It's believed she contracted the bacteria after cutting her leg during a fall from a homemade zip line May 1.

Her father said she is now at a rehabilitation center, where she's proven to be a quick learner -- within one week, she's already learned to brush her teeth and to feed herself.

"She was so proud of herself being able to do that, but that did take me by surprise just because it happened so soon," he said.

Meanwhile, construction continues at the family's home for an addition many are calling Aimee's Wing -- which will feature the space and accommodations she needs to live comfortably when she returns home.