Fundraising appeal launched to support family of American tourist killed in tragic N51 collision
The American tourist who lost her life in the road traffic collision in Boyerstown last Thursday morning has been named and a heartbreaking fundraising appeal launched by her family.
Courtney Terrell and her teenage daughter Margo, from Illinois were involved in the two-car collision on the Navan Athboy N51 road near, Boyerstown at approximately 7.45 am on Thursday.
Mrs Terrell, who was in her 40’s, died in the accident, while her teenage daughter, Margo, was airlifted to Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) Temple Street, where she is being treated for serious injuries.
The driver of the car and another passenger are understood to have been treated for non-life threatening injuries in Our Lady of Lourdes’ Hospital in Drogheda
The driver, and sole occupant of the other car, was treated in James Connolly Memorial Hospital in Blanchardstown for injuries which have been described as ‘non-life-threatening’.
Taking to social media message on Friday, Courtney Terrell’s devastated husband, Mark, described his wife as his as his best friend and said this was "something I never thought I’d have to post”.
"Yesterday morning, my wife, Courtney Terrell, and daughter, Margo, were in a terrible car accident in Ireland, and my beautiful wife and best friend passed away from her injuries.
“Margo has undergone many surgeries since yesterday and has yet another one to go through on Monday. She is sedated and will remain that way until after Monday’s surgery and likely until Tuesday.
"We have a very long road ahead of us with all of this. Please pray hard for my kids to get through this.
"Also, please keep us all in mind and please pray Margo recovers completely and as quickly as physically possible so we can return back to the US.
"Right now, it’s looking like 3-5 weeks before she will be well enough to fly home.’
Courtney’s sister, Cassie, has set up a GoFundMe page to help the family with expenses associated with travelling to Ireland at short notice and bringing Courtney home to the United States.
"My sister Courtney, her husband Mark, and their 2 youngest kids, Margo and Theo Terrell, were enjoying what was meant to be a special family trip in Ireland when Courtney and Margo were in a tragic car accident. Courtney passed away from her injuries, and Margo is in critical condition.
"Mark is now navigating the overwhelming reality of a loss in a foreign country while caring for their daughter, Margo. As they focus on Margo’s recovery and the difficult days ahead, Mark is carrying the weight of decisions, logistics, and responsibilities that no family should have to face alone.
"Their children, Damon and Rylie, back home in the United States, are desperately trying to get to their dad, sister, and brother during this incredibly painful time. International travel on such short notice comes with significant costs and logistical challenges.
"Mark’s oldest, Colton, is doing everything he can to run their businesses while Mark’s away.
"Mark has humbly agreed to allow friends and community members to create this GoFundMe to help support the family through the immediate needs they are facing."
Funds raised will help with:
• Emergency travel expenses to bring their children to Ireland
• Medical and hospital costs related to Margo’s care
• Lodging and transportation while Mark remains in Ireland
• Transporting Courtney overseas to be laid to rest
• The many unexpected expenses that arise during a crisis abroad
"The Terrell family is deeply loved by their community, friends, and family. Those who know them know the strength of their faith, the love they have for their children, and the kindness they show to others.
"If you are able to give, any contribution—no matter the amount—will help ease the burden they are carrying. If giving isn’t possible, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping the Terrell family in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
"Thank you for helping wrap this family in care, compassion, and support."