A woman has been left with life-altering injuries after attempting a challenging yoga move during a class.
Abby Weiss' life has completely changed at just 32 years old after she suffered a devastating spinal cord injury while taking part in acroyoga - an activity that combines the intensity of acrobatics with the flexibility of yoga.
Prior to the accident in June, Abby had been partaking in acroyoga for four years, with her loved ones describing it as the "sport she loved".
However, an attempt at one of her most challenging moves has resulted in her being completely paralyzed from the neck down and in need of round-the-clock care.
On a GoFundMe page, her loved ones recalled the harrowing accident.
Describing her as a "vibrant and passionate woman", the family urged people for donations to help the 32-year-old "reclaim her life".
"[Abby] suffered a severe spinal cord injury during acroyoga, a sport she loved," the statement started. "This accident has left her paralyzed from the neck down.
"As a dedicated pediatric speech therapist and business owner, Abby has always served her community with compassion," it continued. "Her love for life extended to hobbies like acroyoga, Zouk dancing, hiking, yoga, learning Spanish, and world travel..."
They went on to state that Abby is still in the ICU, preparing for a long and challenging journey.
"She will need funds for medical equipment, pain management sessions, transportation to relocate back to Chicago, and continued medical care," the statement stated. "Your support can help Abby regain her strength and independence. Please donate to aid in her recovery and bring her closer to doing what she loves again.
"Every contribution is deeply appreciated," it concluded.
So far, the fundraiser has managed to secure over $158,000 from thousands of donations.
Judy Washer, Abby's aunt, spoke to WIS10 about how her niece's tragic injury impacted her entire life as well as those around her.
"It’s just awful to have to pack her stuff up. It’s just awful and it didn’t have to be like this," she said.
When speaking of the fundraiser, she added: "The San Diego community: thank you for giving her the wonderful years that she had here."
Abby's father also told the outlet that his daughter loved being active in the outdoors and was passionate about acroyoga, which is why her current situation is so difficult to deal with.
"She said the other day it feels like she’s in a straight jacket. She can’t move. Everything’s got to be done for her," he said.
For now, Abby will be working on trying to regain some movement after her inflammation goes down, but medical professionals have told her that there are no guarantees with spinal cord injuries so severe.
We wish Abby the best in her journey to recovery.