Friends, co-workers join Aimee Copeland fundraiser

CARROLLTON, Ga. — Aimee Copeland is getting more support in her recovery from a flesh-eating bacteria -- this time from friends and supporters in Carrollton.

A fundraiser for Copeland took place at the Sunnyside Cafe, the place where Copeland worked in Carrollton. She studied psychology at the University of West Georgia.

"I'm not sure I've ever seen anything like this," said Kara Dermo, Copeland's friend and co-worker.

"Competitors are coming together. Companies that normally don't have any reason to speak to each other are teaming up," she said.

Local artists and businesses donated items for a silent auction. There was also food, music and games for children.

Some people made monetary donations, like Martha Setters.

"This is just human nature to want to help people who have these tragic things happen to them," Setters said. "We got to do
it."

"I'm praying that she will feel better, even though I know she's going through so much," said another resident, Carmen Morgan.

Copeland remains in critical condition at a hospital in Augusta, where she is receiving specialized care.

She contracted a flesh-eating bacteria after a May 1 fall from a homemade zipline. She cut her leg and the wound somehow became infected, forcing doctors to amputate her leg and later, both hands.

Channel 2 Action News has also learned the final tally of a blood drive and fundraiser that happened Monday in Snellville, Copeland's hometown.

The Sheperd Community Blood Center received 233 usable units of blood. The event took place at the family's church, First Baptist Snellville, and was organized by the South Gwinnett Rotary Club.

At the blood drive, supporters also donated more than $10,000 for her recovery -- including $5,000 from a single donor.
http://bcove.me/vc4r5hhj

WSBTV