Alabama state Sen. Garlan Gudger issues statement after 4th of July jet ski crash

CULLMAN COUNTY, Ala. ( WHNT ) — State Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman) issued a statement following a jet ski crash that happened on the Fourth of July at Smith Lake in Cullman.

Gudger made the statement from UAB Hospital, where he remains under treatment following a serious Fourth of July jet ski crash that resulted in three fractured vertebrae, six fractured ribs, a punctured lung and internal bleeding.

Gudger was airlifted to UAB Hospital on Thursday after his personal watercraft was hit from behind by another. Gudger received surgery upon arrival to address the internal bleeding.

Gudger issued the following statement:

If it had not been for the bystanders at the dock, the first responders who treated me at lakeside, the emergency helipad that had been installed by Trident Marina, Alabama’s Air Evac Flight Team, and an amazing group of UAB doctors, nurses, and administrators, I am certain that the outcome of this accident would have been much different.

“I remain under watch in UAB’s Intensive Care Unit but have been able to walk down the hallway.

“The physical recovery will be a difficult one for our family, but it will be made easier by the intercessory prayers being sent by friends, family, constituents, colleagues, and even total strangers who understand that healing comes from God.

“At this time, I must focus on getting better and will not be able to accept visitors, but please know how grateful my family and I are for everyone who has reached out to offer help and concern.”

State Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman)

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