Family of couple burned in New Zealand volcanic eruption says they are still in recovery
NEW ZEALAND - The family of the couple injured in the volcanic eruption in New Zealand released a statement Tuesday.
The family of Matt and Lauren Urey say they are grateful that the couple survived, even though they were severely injured.
Their statement said that they had received nothing but support from everyone in New Zealand.
The Urey family has also received support from the local community.
Matt Urey is a Hermitage native that now resides in Virginia. He graduated from Hickory High School.
A family friend, Vic Ellenberger, organized a prayer vigil a few weeks ago. A GoFundMe was also set up for the couple, and donations have surpassed $53,000.
Matt Urey's mother, Jan, who still lives in Hermitage, flew to New Zealand shortly after they were injured.
Matt required surgery and had about 80% of his body burned. Lauren suffered burns on 25% of her body.
You can read the family's complete statement here.
