Drive-By Parade Held For Matlak Family In Lockport

LOCKPORT, IL — It has been nearly a year since Gabby Matlak's near drowning accident. Gabby, now 5, was in a coma after the accident, and is still recovering. In May, Danielle Tilbur and Jessica Gordon of the Lockport and Surrounding Area Birthday Parade group planned the 'Miles of Smiles for the Matlak's' to show support for the family.

Tielbur said she is a long-time friend of the family, and helps run a birthday parade group for car parades for kids during the stay-at-home order. She had the idea of doing a parade for Gabby and her family, and Gordon agreed it was a great idea.

An event was created on Facebook, and about 45 cars ended up participating in the parade.

"We're so lucky and thankful to still have the support of the community," Gabby's mom, Paulina, told Patch. "The community still cares."

Paulina said Pikachu and Elsa from Frozen also stopped by to see the family. Gabby, and her siblings, Lily, 3, and Alex, 7, enjoyed the visit from the characters.

There were also police and fire vehicles, as well as friends of Gabby's and her siblings, Paulina said.

Paulina said Gabby's recovery is especially difficult right now due to facility closures and therapy cancellations from the coronavirus. Gabby has also been having seizures lately, and was just approved for CBD oil, which Paulina said was encouraging news.

The parade served as an outlet for the family, she said.

"It was reassuring, it was a reminder we're not alone," Paulina said. "We're so thankful."