'Difficult and long road to recovery' for newlyweds burnt in Whakaari/White Island eruption
Tuesday, 24 December 2019
A honeymooning couple severely burnt in the Whakaari/White Island eruption are recovering as 'well as could be hoped', their family say.
US newlyweds Lauren and Matt Urey were severely burnt in the eruption that killed 17 people, a toll which doesn't include two bodies yet to be found.
'There are no words to express how horrible this has been for everyone involved,' the family of the newlyweds said in a statement issued through NZ Police on Tuesday.
'But we are very lucky and grateful that although Lauren and Matt are severely injured, they're still with us.
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'They are progressing as well as could be hoped for given the severity of their injuries, but they both have a tremendously difficult and long road to recovery ahead of them.'
The family offered their condolences to the many families and friends of those killed in the tragic eruption.
'The list of people we want to thank is endless, but we especially want to recognise the healthcare professionals working with Lauren and Matt who have done an incredible job dealing with an unprecedented situation, and we are eternally grateful to them for helping to save our loved ones.'
The family didn't elaborate on the pair's condition.
A Gofundme page had been set up to support the pair, who would be off work for a long time.
The statement went on to thank the NZ police and American Consulate.
'From the moment we were notified of the eruption, we have received nothing but support from everyone here in New Zealand.
'We ask that you continue to send positive thoughts and prayers their way; they need them.'