A 13-year-old Mount Brydges girl, killed in a two-vehicle crash over the weekend, is being remembered as a "shining light in this world."
Avery Kernaghan was the passenger in a vehicle that collided with another on Glendon Dr. west of Parkhouse Dr. Saturday afternoon. Kernaghan was pronounced dead in hospital. Her father, Douglas Kernaghan, who was driving the vehicle, was airlifted to London hospital where he is listed in critical condition.
The pair were on their way to the Ontario Regional Synchronized Skating Championships in Komoka at the time of the crash. The 13-year-old was an active member of the figure skating and synchronized skating community. In her memory, residents of Mount Brydges have begun hanging figure skates from their mailboxes and porches.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help ease some of the financial burden on the family, with a goal of raising $20,000.
"Avery was a shining light in this world, who was tragically taken too early. Her fierce nature and contagious smile will be embedded in our memories for a lifetime," the GoFundMe page states.
Over $15,500 has been raised for the Kernaghan family in just 14 hours.
Many of those who from the tight-knit community and skating world who donated also shared their condolences through the page.
"My heart goes out to the family during this time. I loved coaching Avery with that beaming smile she always had," said one person.
While another said "what you're going through is unimaginable and I wish were enough words, prayers or strength that could ease some of your pain. I hope the love and support from your family and friends and hockey/figure skating communities from near and far will give you strength and comfort."
