Benefit organized to help teen hurt by go-kart

GREENWOOD, Ind. (WISH) - Greenwood is rallying around a teen that was critically injured while riding a go-kart this summer.

While in the go-kart, Shelbi Couch’s long locks of hair were gripped in the spinning axle of the kart and ripped from her head.

Now, family and friends of Crouch are organizing a fundraiser to help pay for her medical bills.

The Baskin Robbins where Crouch worked in Greenwood will donate 20-percent of its proceeds Saturday from noon until 6pm to the cause. The store is located at 1280 U.S. 31.

Wednesday afternoon, Shelbi’s mom, Sherri Crouch-Wilson said her daughter is home but still has a long way to go to recover.

“I just have to let her know to keep going (that) it is going to be ok. She has had times where she just said ‘I’m done, I don’t want to do this anymore,’" Crouch-Wilson said.

Indeed, no parent wants to watch their child suffer but that has been the reality for Crouch-Wilson since July 8.

That’s the day her 19-year-old daughter took a tragic turn on the track at Whiteland Raceway. This summer, I-Team 8 exposed the track may have violated multiple industry standards for public karting facilities.

“When they checked in at the go-kart place, one of the kids that was with Shelbi made mention ‘Does she need to pull her hair up?’ She had no idea and didn't really think about that. She was told it really wasn't necessary,” said Crouch-Wilson

This summer, the 19-year-old’s family and friends have focused on helping her heal.
She smiled from ear to ear when Rascal Flatts serenaded her at their concert.

Now friends want to help pay for the mounting medical bills.

It all started with Crouch’s colleagues at Baskin Robbins donating their tips. So far, they've raised $3,000. They hope to raise more with the benefit Saturday.

Friends are also selling bracelets with the message, “Pray for Shelbi”.