Restaurant holds fundraiser for woman - Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

Residents of Snellville came together on Monday to help raise funds for a woman fighting flesh-eating bacteria.

University of West Georgia graduate student Aimee Copeland has had a leg, foot and both hands amputated, but her father says that she's stable and has stayed off a ventilator. He also wrote on his blog that Aimee has spoken her first words since entering the hospital.

Copeland, 24, developed necrotizing fasciitis after cutting her leg in a May 1 zip line accident over a west Georgia river.

Aimee's father, Andy Copeland, declared Sunday "Aimee Copeland Day" after she spoke for the first time since being admitted to the hospital. He said that she talked about the band the Grateful Dead, using wilderness therapy for amputees and her physical condition. He said that she was very expressive, clearly elucidated her thoughts and even cracked jokes.

Colby Cameron said he decided to hold the fundraiser at his Chick-fil-A restaurant on Main Street after seeing how the community had been affected by Aimee's story.

"It's something that has hit our community hard. A lot of heart-wrenching stories that her family is going through, so we wanted to help out some way," said Cameron.

A portion of the funds from the food sold will go to help fund Aimee's medical expenses. There was also a donation box and a card for people to write messages to Aimee.

Joan Rubesch says eating out to raise money for Aimee is the least she can do to help.

"I can't imagine. I tried to put myself in her place and even if I had to lose one limb, I would be devastated…and here, she's lost so much," said Rubesch.

The city of Snellville is planning a fundraiser next month.  They will be bringing in bands for a two day concert to help Aimee and her family.