As a child, Whitney Sibol played softball within the Kingsville Recreation and Parks Council. Her mother, Judy, coached and later led the organization as president for several years.

But in the aftermath of a tragic accident, the council has recently turned its attention back to the family.

In early June, Whitney Sibol, was run over by a power boat in the Bird River. The accident left the 23-year-old severely injured and fighting for her life. Weeks and several surgeries later, she plans to return home to Kingsville on Wednesday, where she will continue to undergo extensive physical and occupational therapy, her mother said.

Whitney Sibol's planned homecoming just happens to be on Independence Day, a day in which Kingsville community members have joined in a large hometown parade for the past 32 years.

While she isn't expect to attend the parade, up to 70 members of the recreation council are expected to march in her honor, said coach and organizer Ken West. They will hold a banner and hand out fliers with information about the Maryland Shock Trauma Center that helped save Whitney Sibol's life immediately following the accident, West said. 

At Whitney Sibol's request, marchers are also helping to raise money to support nursing education programs at the hospital, her mother said. 

"I just can't express the gratitude we feel for the support. It's been such a help in Whitney's healing process and our family's healing process," Judy Sibol said, adding that her daughter's spirits are high, in spite of the accident. 

"It's such a wonderful family. I remember when she played softball with us," West said.

"This is the least we can do to support her. Whitney's a fighter," he added.

Instructions for anyone interested in participating in the parade march or donating to the hospital can be found in the fliers attached to this article.