Preet Harsoda came to America dreaming of the better life he could achieve through his education at Florida State University.
Taking steps toward this dream, Preet, 27, recently moved to Florida’s capital from India, but his world was “turned upside down” when his apartment went up in flames.
Preet was one of the eight people to be injured in a massive blaze from Nov. 19 that burned an apartment building at The Social Seminole on Ocala Road. He suffered “life-threatening burns” over most his body, and now his friends are asking people for their help.
Via a GoFundMe page made on his behalf, Preet’s friends are seeking any amount to help him cover medical expenses, long-term hospital and rehabilitation care, essential medications and follow-up treatments, travel costs for his family that’s coming from India and any other unforeseen costs that could arise.
“Your support — no matter the amount — will make a real difference by easing the financial burden on his family so they can focus on what matters most: helping Preet survive and heal,” the GoFundMe page says.
Friends of Preet said his road to recovery is expected to be a long one.
He is currently on a ventilator and continuous dialysis after being life-flighted to UF Health Shands Hospital from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. Doctors have been tending to his burns, but he will need many surgeries, including skin grafts, according to the fundraiser, which included a photo of Preet in the hospital bed.
So far, Preet has received more than $23,000 in donations.
“Please keep Preet in your thoughts and prayers,” his friends wrote. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Non-profit seeking ‘urgent relief’ for other Indian students caught in the fire
Preet isn’t the only student from his country that was injured or displaced by the fire. The Indian Association of Tallahassee (IATLH) said at least 30 students from India were “severely affected and are in urgent need of essentials including food, clothing, winter wear and other basic necessities.”
The organization launched a GoFundMe on behalf of these students that has already raised $40,000. The donation page says Preet and one other were seriously burned and had to be taken to Gainesville, three either broke or injured their legs, one sprained their back and one injured their neck while trying to escape.
“Time is of the essence, and we humbly request the community’s prompt support for this important initiative,” the fundraiser says.
Want to help?
Local government watchdog reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Friends of FSU student with ‘life-threatening’ burns seek support
Reporting by Elena Barrera, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
