News Release Distributed 08/25/10
The Student Clubs in the LSU AgCenter’s School of Renewable Natural Resources have established a donation account to help defray the medical expenses of the LSU doctoral student who survived an alligator attack while conducting her research.
Yu-Hsin Hsueh was attacked on July 28 at Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve in Marrero while collecting water and soil samples as part of her dissertation research. The alligator broke six bones in her right hand and arm.
“She’s undergone several surgeries and likely has more to go,” said D. Allen Rutherford, school director.
Hsueh is on a university research fellowship, and her medical expenses, which could exceed $50,000, are not covered by workers’ compensation, Rutherford said.
The donation account has been set up at Home Bank, 10563 S. Glenstone Place, Baton Rouge, La. 70810, which is near the Bluebonnet Library.
The fundraising effort began Aug. 21, Rutherford said, with a student volleyball tournament that raised $2,200. Anyone wishing to help with this cause can make a donation to RNR Clubs in the name of Yu-Hsin Hsueh at any Home Bank. Go to www.home24bank.com/site27.php for the bank locations.
If you have any questions, you may contact Rutherford at 225-578-4187 or drutherford@agcenter.lsu.edu.
Linda Foster Benedict