US teen still unable to walk, has impaired speech, cognition after fight near school

A teenager showed symptoms of "significant cognitive impairment" following a fight near her high school last month in the US. Kaylee Gain suffered critical injuries when she was violently thrown on the pavement during the altercation on March 8, resulting in a skull fracture and brain hemorrhage.

Gain, a Missouri resident, was assaulted by a 15-year-old student from her school, who has been arrested and charged with assault. According to the New York Post, the assailant repeatedly hit her head against concrete blocks near Hazelwood East High School in Spanish Lake.

After awakening from coma, Gain, aged 16, as reported by her lawyer Bryan Kaemmerer was unable to speak clearly, while her ability to walk was improving. 

"Kaylee's ability to walk has slightly improved but she is still unable to do so without the assistance of hospital staff," Kaemmerer told the Post.

"However, Kaylee is still showing signs of significant cognitive impairment during the limited conversations that she is able to have, and she tends to reiterate the same short sentences over and over," he said.

According to her family, Gain has no memory of the incident that resulted in her hospitalisation.

Her lawyer, addressing social media posts, stated that the teen exhibited "complete disregard for the well-being of a fellow human being." He argued that considering the severity of the situation, the teen should be "tried as an adult."

Reports from the New York Post indicated that the assailant is now seeking to offer an apology.

Gain's family initiated a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised $440,000 to help her recovery.

Gain's mother, April, expressed gratitude to those who assisted the family during this challenging period. In a statement published by People Magazine, she acknowledged the ongoing support.

"She still has an incredibly long journey ahead of her, but she is strong." she said.