Fiesta Fundraiser to Support Brighton Grad

Almost weeks has passed since the tragic night a deer ran into the motorcycle driven by Patrick Byrne, leaving the husband and father in a coma.

And for two weeks, his wife, Paula Reid, hasn’t left his side, continuing her vigil with the support from family and friends.

“She wants to be by his side in case there are those moments of hope where you’ll get those glimpses of his eyes opening,” family friend Rachelle Seguin said.

While doctors are still unable to test for brain activity due to the swelling, Byrne, a 1990 Brighton graduate, was taken off life support for approximately 24 hours, where the 41-year-old was able to breathe on his own.

“But then they had to put him back on the ventilator because it was just too much for his body," Seguin said. “But he did have a moment where he came to and opened his eyes and was breathing on his own.”

Calling it a “great step,” Seguin said it’s moments like these that continue to give the family hope and why Reid is determined to remain by his side.

With the community rallying around the family, “generous” donations have helped Reid and her son spend their time at the hospital and it’s the prayers and blessings they have felt that have provided the most comfort.

“She keeps telling me to tell everyone to keep sending their thoughts and prayers,” Senguin said. “The monetary donations have been very helpful, but just the support she’s getting, people sending messages… her whole family is just overwhelmed with the support they are getting with prayers and blessings coming in.”

Fundraisers for the Reid-Byrne family

After word spread of the accident, Reid's co-workers and friends and family members immediately stepped in, providing financial aid which has allowed Reid to take some time off work. 

On Sept. 7, the Fiesta Mexican Restaurant, where Reid is employed, will be hosting an all-day fundraiser for the family where 10 percent of the proceeds will go towards the family. 

Collection jars are also set up at two locations, Trading Closets in Brighton and Fiesta Mexican Restaurant in Hartland. 

A PayPal account has been set up for anyone wishing to donate. Click on the Send Money to Friends in the lower right hand side of the page, enter the email address rachelleseguin14@gmail.com and follow the steps to make a donation.