FAMILY and friends of injured TT competitor James Cornell are bidding to raise $50,000 to take him home.
The San Francisco native suffered massive head injuries during a practice crash at this year's TT.
He was a passenger in a sidecar outfit ridden by fellow American Doug Dano, which crashed at May Hill in Ramsey on May 27.
While the rider was di
scharged from hospital after five days – following treatment for broken bones and internal injuries – James was placed in an induced coma to try and limit further brain damage.
Almost six weeks on, the 36-year-old remains in a stable condition in Noble's Hospital.
Visitor reports suggest he may be making slight improvements, but his dad has admitted doctors are not optimistic.
Allen Cornell travelled to the Island to be with his son and, while he was surprised at how well the racer looked, he confirmed the chances of recovery are not high due to 'extensive and severe' brain injury.
'It just looked like he was sleeping,' he said.
However, it is hoped James can be transferred to San Francisco General Hospital.
His friends and fellow biking enthusiasts are organising events to raise cash to meet the cost of the journey.
James is a member of the San Francisco Motorcycle Club and vice president Stephan Kokinda explained why supporters are clubbing together.
'James is just such a great, all-round guy,' he told the San Francisco Chronicle. 'We want him home so we can help him.'
Last week hundreds of bikers attended events in the city on the west coast of the US to raise money for the fund.
A website has also been set up to give updates on his condition, advertise events and take donations.
Friend Lionel Hall told the Chronicle: 'One quality James has is that you can always count on him.
'If he says he is going to do something, he comes through.
'We are trying to return the favour.'
Link: www.jamescornellfund.org
