> At a Glance
> – Sandra Prokofi, 39, broke her spine in a Dec. 29 snowboard fall at Keystone Resort
> – She remains on full life support with uncertain prognosis
> – A GoFundMe has raised $95,000 for medical flights and care
> – Why it matters: A helmet couldn’t prevent life-threatening injuries, highlighting hidden risks on familiar slopes
A routine December ride turned life-changing when Castle Rock mom Sandra Prokofi caught an edge on Keystone’s Upper Frenchman Trail and landed face-first, leaving the avid snowboarder and business owner paralyzed and on life support.
The Accident
Patrollers responded quickly after the Dec. 29 crash, airlifting the 39-year-old to a Lakewood hospital. Despite wearing a helmet, the impact severed critical spinal structures.
Robert Janowski, her brother, recalls the call:
> “The doctor at Keystone actually broke down crying-that’s when I knew it was bad.”
Doctors performed emergency spinal surgery that night, followed by additional procedures.
Current Condition
More than a week later, Prokofi remains on full life support. According to the latest GoFundMe update:
- Very weak cough leading to mucus buildup
- Oxygen-saturation issues
- Prognosis still uncertain
The family writes:
> “If she survives, she is facing a life-changing road to recovery and likely paralysis.”
Community Response
Janowski and a family friend launched the fundraiser to cover:
- Emergency life-flight
- Ongoing ICU care
- Household bills for six children
Donations surpassed $95,000 within days, reflecting wide community support for the flooring-business owner known for shuttling her five boys and one girl between sports and outdoor adventures.
Key Takeaways
- Even helmeted, low-speed snowboard falls can cause catastrophic spine trauma
- Prokofi’s injuries require long-term intensive care
- Community donations surpassed initial goals within days
As Janowski keeps vigil, he clings to small signs: his sister can reportedly hear loved ones at bedside, making each day “a fight for her life.”
