Family and friends support grad student

AMHERST, N.Y. (WIVB) - Friends and co-workers are coming together to support a University at Buffalo graduate student seriously injured in a hit and run accident.

You gotta love western New York.

Mary May sure does, especially after seeing the dozens of generous gifts donated for a fundraiser for her niece, Amy Stewart.

Mary May said, "I mean this is wonderful. If she could see this, she would be amazed."

The 22-year-old University at Buffalo graduate student suffered serious head trauma last month when struck by a hit-and-run driver while crossing Main Street near Daemen College.

Her friend Rachel Baird was also hurt.

Uno's on Maple Road is hosting the "Doughraiser," which was put together by Amy's fellow graduate students in the Department of Education.

Associate Dean of Graduate School of Education Jenifer Lawrence said, "The U.B., many people think it's a huge institution and um the Grad School of Ed. is like a home."

Dean of Graduate School of Education Mary Gresham said, "It's a sad reason, but I'm glad we're here. We love our students and want to do anything we can for them."

Support for the event came early well before doors opened. The managers said they took in $1800 dollars worth of take out orders from businesses in the community.

Uno's pledged to donate twenty percent of each check to Amy to cover medical expenses.

Uno's General Manager Marc Vavalle said, "Amy has a huge influence in Glendale, Sweet Home, and uh we're glad to host the event for her."

The hit and run triggered an intense police investigation.

A break in the case later led to the arrest of a 30-year-old Tonawanda woman. She remains in custody, while Amy continues to recover.

May said, "Every day is a little better, get a little more hope every day."

Amy's friends are amazed at the outpouring of support, a testament to Amy and her family.

Amy's friend Anne Nowak said, "I think it's the ripple effect. People don't understand how many lives they touch and she's touched a lot of people."

Initially, Uno's was only doing a one-day fundraiser but due to the response have extened it through Thursday.

If you drop by the Maple Road location between now and then, twenty percent of your check will be donated.