Manitoba mother who survived night in frigid weather, loses feet to frostbite

WINNIPEG — A Manitoba mother who survived a night in the bitter cold after driving off the a rural road, has lost both feet to frostbite.

On Jan. 17, Kristen Hiebert and her four-year-old daughter, Avery were driving home when their car slid off a highway near a bridge and rolled down a steep slope, near Killarney, Manitoba. The temperature dipped below -20C that night and she had to cover her daughter to keep her warm.

At dawn, Hiebert dragged herself up the snowbank despite a broken leg, broken neck and severe frostbite to her bare feet.

Hiebert was finally found by a passing driver and was airlifted to a Winnipeg hospital.

READ MORE: Manitoba mom and daughter survive night in frigid temperatures after crash

On Tuesday, Hiebert’s friend gave an update on her condition on a GoFundMe page.

“Last Wednesday it was decided that the frostbite on Kristen’s feet was too severe. Kristen had both feet amputated above the ankle. There were and are many emotions that overwhelm the family, but the support shown by all of you kept them strong.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Last Wednesday it was decided that the frostbite on Kristen's feet was too severe. Kristen had both feet amputated above the ankle. There were and are many emotions that overwhelm the family, but the support shown by all of you kept them strong."

The page said Hiebert continues to heal and her right hand – which also has frostbite – is improving daily. Hiebert is also able to use her left arm, even though it was recently implanted with a plate.

“Her feeding tube will be removed soon, but her biggest irritant is the neck brace she has to wear constantly for the next while,” posted a friend.

Hiebert’s daughter, Avery is “doing wonderful” and is discharged from hospital, spending time with her grandmother.

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READ MORE: Manitoba crash victim who saved daughter may not walk again: friend

“Kristen is overcome with emotion by all of the love shown towards her and her family. She sends her sincerest gratitude to everyone who has donated, sent kind thoughts, words and prayers. She is in awe of your compassion,” posted a friend.

The GoFundMe page has raised more than $60,000.