A YOUNG Co Tyrone GAA player who suffered serious head injuries after he was hit by a car in the US has been moved out of intensive care.
Aaron Elliot (22), who moved to Philadelphia in March, was hit by a car in the city on Saturday of last week.
A former player with Clonoe O'Rahilly's, he suffered a series of injuries including a blood clot, leak in the brain, fractured skull, collapsed lung and shattered elbow.
His sister Laura and her boyfriend Ronan Fay flew to the US shortly after Mr Elliot was taken to hospital.
Mr Fay said last night the GAA player had been moved out of intensive care on Thursday evening and was "making some progress".
"He was due to have an operation on his shattered elbow but that last been put back to September 5," he said.
"He's conscious but he's still on heavy medication."
Mr Fay said Mr Elliot's family were keen to get him home as soon as possible but he cannot fly at the moment because of his collapsed lung and other injuries.
He said US doctors told the player he could face between three to six months of treatment, including extensive rehabilitation.
An online campaign to raise money to help pay his medical bills has raised more than $27,000 - more than a fifth of the $100,000 target.
Mr Fay said Mr Elliot's health insurance had run out before the accident and any money donated will be gratefully received.
A fundraiser is to be held at the Irish Centre in Philadelphia on October 8.
Mr Elliot's old club Clonoe O'Rahilly's are also expected to hold a fundraiser.
To donate money visit www.gofundme.com/aaron-elliot-benefit-fund
