Posted on June - 26 - 2011
Family, faith sustain injured groom who lost wife in honeymoon accident
Victor Rodriguez was recovering from liver surgery Wednesday, two weeks after a parasailing accident that killed his wife, Crystal, and left him with extensive internal injuries.
Rodriguez’s condition is listed as serious and he will be in an Orlando, Fla., hospital for several weeks, according to family members.
“Vic has had many injuries, but he is doing as well as can be expected,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Victor Rodriguez’s father. “Right now, he’s leaning on his faith and all the support he’s gotten.”
The Roseville couple, both 22, were on their honeymoon in the Bahamas when on June 16 the day before they were to return home they went parasailing. Their harness snapped, and they plunged into the water.
Crystal Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the hospital.
The couple worked seven jobs between them and had no health insurance.
Since then, the family has received offers of help from throughout the community.
“The response has really been a comfort,” said Rodriguez, who is with his son in Orlando. The family has received media requests for interviews from all over the country.
A fund was started by Bayside Church where the couple attended to help pay for her funeral services and his medical needs. So far, Bayside members have donated $12,500. Another $3,745 has been sent to a memorial fund.
The Greater Sacramento New Car Dealers Association announced that it is donating money needed for medevac services to bring Rodriguez home. Maloof Sports and Entertainment has donated $5,000. Rodriguez worked for the Sacramento Kings as a locker room attendant, one of four jobs he held while studying at Sierra College.
Others are planning fundraisers for the couple. Jackie Bush, who works for All West Coach Lines, knew Rodriguez and is organizing one of several fundraisers.
“I feel so bad this happened. I want to help him,” she said. Bush’s company, part of Coach America, is arranging for four buses to take patrons to Feather Falls Casino on Aug. 20. The charge is $35 per person. All funds go to Rodriguez family.
Victor Rodriguez has been told about community response, according to his family. “It’s helping him get through this. He has a long road ahead,” said Ruben Rodriguez. “He has good days, and then he has his setbacks.”
Rodriguez suffered a punctured lung, several broken ribs, and internal injuries. “I keep telling him I’m so proud of him,” said his father.
Crystal Rodriguez has been cremated, and services will be held for her after her husband returns to Roseville.
Rodriquez’s mother said the prayers, cards and notes have helped.
“We are tremendously grateful for all the support we have received,” said Jeanne Rodriguez. “It is carrying us emotionally, spiritually and financially.”
Mail to: R.W. Baird,
300 University Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95825
Checks should be made payable to Rodriguez Family Care Fund, c/o R.W. Baird
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