According to family, Eric and Promise Costello, the 13-year-old twins that were hit by a car on Hwy. 144 Feb. 14, have seen some improvement with their health.
Mike Pierson, the children’s grandfather, said Eric was released from Memorial Hospital Feb. 18 after having surgery on his right leg. He said Eric is currently wheelchair-bound, but is currently undergoing physical therapy in order to eventually get back on his feet. His cast was removed Tuesday.
Pierson said Promise’s fate is still unknown, but she was transported this week to a rehabilitation hospital in Atlanta.
"The doctors in Atlanta are undergoing extensive evaluation to see what sort of therapy will be needed," Pierson said. "But she is stable, talking and she has her appetite back. She just has a lot of pain in her back and extremities."
Pierson said the family has been overwhelmed with the outpour of support from the Bryan County community. That support was apparent Wednesday night under the pavilion at J.F. Gregory Park, where nearly 100 residents flocked for a candlelight prayer vigil for the twins.The twins were crossing the street with members of the Richmond Hill Coastal Community Church when the accident occurred. Senior Minister Mark Snavely said he was impressed by the various pastors of other churches that attended the rally.
"The accident has affected a lot of people in this town," Snavely said. "It’s awesome to see how the community of faith has risen up and rallied behind those that are hurting. Tonight is all about prayer and calling on God, who can do more than we can ever imagine or ask. That’s what we’re looking for."
Candles were lit, songs were sung and many took turns at the podium to lead the gathering in prayer.
Richmond Hill City Council members Russ Carpenter and Marilyn Hodges were among those in attendance. Carpenter said he prays for the twins every day while Hodges, who has two children close in age to the Costellos, said the tragedy hit home for her and has brought her closer to her kids.
"It’s brought me closer to all the children of this community and the fact that we take life for granted and how precious life really is," Hodges said.
"Although it’s under such horrible circumstances, the fact that this has brought the community together is incredible," said Angela Hollinger, a member of Coastal Community Church. "It gives you hope and faith that by coming together it’s going to help bring hope for Promise and Eric."
The twins’ father, Kevin Costello, is a member of the 3rd ID. Maj. Michael Summers, chaplain for the 2nd Brigade 3rd ID, Rear Detachment, was one of those who spoke at the vigil.
"As parents we fear when harm will be put on our children. We dread that possibility," Summers said during prayer. "So those of us who are parents grieve for Kevin and Jennifer. We pray that You will be with them and strengthen their faith."