LOCAL NEWS
Mount Vernon police officer will ‘most likely’ be blind
Jan 16, 2017, 8:21 AM

Mike McClaughry was shot in the line of duty in Mount Vernon on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016. (Mount Vernon Police)
(Mount Vernon Police)
Wounded Mount Vernon police officer Mike McClaughry will most likely be blind as a result of his injuries, according to the latest news from his family.
McCaughry has been in the hospital since he was shot in the head in December. He has shown some signs of recovery. The community has helped the family in the weeks since the shooting. The wounded officer has even garnered help from Hollywood actors.
Related: Mount Vernon police officer shot in the line of duty
In a Facebook post, McCaughry’s family updated the community on the status of the Mount Vernon police officer’s recovery:
It is with much heartache to inform you all that we have been told that most likely my dad will be blind.
We are very devastated to hear this news as it changes our lives forever and for sure my fathers. We are holding onto some hope that his brain will heal and recover but we are also trying to prepare ourselves for the future and probable reality.
While in the hospital, McClaughry has been able to move his body and speak a few words. In fact, his first word after the shooting was “ouch.” And there are indications he can hear his family and music. But this past weekend, the family was told by one doctor that McClaughry will likely be blind. Another doctor wants to wait and see how he heals before making such a determination.
April, McClaughry’s daughter, has been managing a Facebook page to update the community about her father. She has also organized a GoFundMe page to raise money for her parents. The news of potential blindness has placed a new angle on that financial need.
I am also asking everyone who follows my dad to please share again, his Go Fund Me Page as I (I am acting alone here) want to ensure my parents do not have to worry about funds. I’m also already thinking seeing eye dog and they are not cheap! Maintenance and repairs on the house cannot be done by my dad any longer, my mom may not be able to return to work. If you want to donate, that’s fantastic. If you don’t, can’t or already did (thank you) no problem I totally understand but if we all share and everyone who can just donates just $5 it can and will add up to financial security for my parents.