Fundraiser Sunday for teen hit by car

Samantha Calvillo was a victim when she was hit by a car as she crossed the street to get to school March 8. Although she is slowly recovering from her injuries, she and her family continue to be victims.

The 17-year-old Douglas High School senior was hit in the crosswalk by a northbound car while crossing Highway 88 on her way to school. An investigation is continuing to determine if there will be any charges against the Carson City resident who reportedly hit her.

There have been no resolutions by insurance companies as yet and bills continue to pile up for Samantha's family.

"We're a paycheck-to-paycheck family," said Samantha's mother Charlotte Tupas. "There are co-payments, deductibles and other things not covered by insurance. Some medication isn't covered and we have to pay the bills.

"It's frustrating because we don't qualify for any programs because (her husband Jim Tupas) has an income.

"We're not asking for long-term help. We're trying to recoup from a devastating event. We just need some help in the interim," she said.

"We have some serious needs but once met, we'll be out of the danger zone."

Samantha spent six days at Renown Medical Center in Reno where she had several operations, including the installation of a titanium rod in her left leg and four screws in her ankle - all still causing pain.

Although she recently had a "walking boot" cast put on her leg, it is mostly for support since she can't put any weight on her leg for six weeks. This also prevents Samantha from attending school but her friends April Epps and Jamie Bitetto are helping her keep up with her studies.

"I know I'm behind but (Douglas counselor) Dori Draper said I could still graduate if I busted my butt," Samantha said.

Valley Christian Fellowship youth pastor Dennis Bertucci said the church has organized an Indian taco fundraiser for Samantha Calvillo and her family 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Bertucci said a "really large" taco and drink is $5.

"They're made with fry bread, ground meat, cheese, salsa, lettuce and tomatoes," he said. "We'll have 150 ready to go when church gets out and we'll have four fryers working and two lines."

Valley Christian Fellowship is at 1267 Highway 395 in the Meadowdale Center, next to the Gardnerville post office. For more information, contact Dennis Bertucci at 781-2223.

What: Fundraiser for Samantha Calvillo

Where: Valley Christian Fellowship, 1267 J Highway 395, Gardnerville

When: 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday

Info: Pastor Dennis Bertucci, 781-2223