A north-east woman was seriously injured when she was knocked down while on holiday in America.
Nicole McLean was in New York with her dad and brother when she was hit by a car earlier this month.
The 24-year-old, from Peterhead, suffered serious injuries.
Doctors expect her to remain in hospital for at least a month – prompting her distraught friends to launch a fundraising campaign to ensure her family can be at her bedside and stay with her until she is strong enough to fly home.
Miss McLean posted her thanks to well-wishers online.
She said: “My brother has just about got through reading all your texts, mails, etc to me that have been sent since my accident.
“I will hopefully get around replying to everyone soon but until then thanks again.”
Her mum added: “She still has a long way to go but she’s a fighter.
“She’s been enjoying reading her messages and I took out a suitcase of cards.”
Friend Hannah Duncan launched the fundraiser, and had originally hoped to reach £500 to cover travel costs and medical expenses.
But by yesterday, donations had topped £4,000 – and any money not used to help Miss McLean will be split between local causes when she gets home.
Miss Duncan said online: “The cost of travelling and living there for those involved will be very expensive as well as the medical expenses and as her close friends we are taking this opportunity to ask for any donations to make this possible.
“It is so important that Nicole has her loved ones around her at this time as she is so far away from home.
“Nobody ever expects to be in this position and it is something that cannot be planned for. Nicole and her family wish to be very clear that all donations are to help them stay by Nicole’s side while she is recovering in hospital for this long period of time.”
Donations can be made by visiting www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Donations-for-Nicole
