VERONA (WKOW) -- The family of Ryan Smith, the man beaten with a bat earlier this week, released a statement Friday. It says:
The family of Ryan M. Smith, who was beaten with a baseball
bat in Mt. Horeb on Monday morning, would like to thank Mt. Horeb police Officer Nathan M. Gretzinger, who
heroically saved Ryan's life by performing CPR. The family would like to offer
their heartfelt appreciation for giving Ryan a second chance.
Ryan was not breathing and did not have a pulse prior to the
officer administering CPR for over 30 minutes. Ryan suffered life threatening
injuries.
The family would also like to extend deep gratitude towards
the UW Hospital and their staff especially nurses Brad, Ben and Kristen as well
as Dr. Josh for their continuous support and the excellent care that they have
administered to Ryan.
Ryan is an asset to the community. He is a loving son,
brother, nephew, uncle, grandson, a good friend to many, and a faithful member
of his church. He is a good man who was a victim of a vicious and hateful crime
that he did not deserve in any way. To
know Ryan is to love him and it is evident by the outpouring of love and
support that is continuously being given by numerous individuals whose lives
have been positively impacted by him.
To help cover expenses related to his injuries, a fund has
been set up at Summit Credit Union. The family would like to extend their
thanks for all the prayers and support given to them during this time.
Donations can be sent
directly to:
Ryan M. Smith Medical
Fund
Summit Credit Union
2939 South Fish Hatchery Road
Fitchburg, WI
53711
