A Maryland teen who jumped in front of a bullet to save a stranger’s life is expected to make a full recovery, according to his family. Chase Lancaster, 16, jumped in front of a bullet to save a girl’s life during a party with his friends on August 9.
Chase was at the party at a clubhouse in the 3300 block of Galena Drive when shots were fired. He went on to shield the girl from the gunfire, almost losing his life while saving her, Chase’s father Alexander Lancaster told WUSA 9 on Wednesday.
He said the bullet damaged Chase’s liver and one of his largest veins. Sadly, his kidney was also destroyed but after almost 100 surgeries and several complications, he is getting better.
“Definitely, thankful Chase is alive. I’ve been blown away by the support from the broader community,” Alex Lancaster said.
“We are so thankful. Chase is like a new person. The doctors looked at him and said who are you? He’s recovered that much.”
The Frederick County Sheriff’s office has indicated that Chase was not the intended target.
Chase had dreams of playing professional football before the unfortunate incident happened and his family and doctors were unsure if that dream could be realized.
But thankfully, the teen hasn’t lost hope as he has begun walking and talking again after three months in the hospital.
“The best news was from doctors that he’ll make a full recovery and play football. Sky is the limit for him!” Alex Lancaster said.
The Lancaster family has set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses. “Chase’s journey to recovery will be long and arduous, but with your support, we can help ease the financial burden that this tragedy has placed on his family,” the family wrote.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly towards covering his extensive medical treatment, emergency costs, and the financial strain of lost wages during this critical period.”
Last Wednesday, the family said it would spend Thanksgiving at the hospital with Chase, preparing his favorite meals. They also hoped he would be back just in time for his 17th birthday and Christmas.
