9-year-old Mackenzie Hollingsworth faces long road to recovery following Waukesha Christmas parade tragedy

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WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) - A 9-year-old girl in Waukesha faces a long road to recovery after being run down in the Christmas parade over a week ago in Waukesha.

Mackenzie Hollingsworth is a member of the Waukesha Xtreme Dance team and was critically injured last week. Her mother released an update on her condition Wednesday morning.

"She suffered many severe injuries, including multiple fractures to the skull, bleeding and swelling on the brain, a broken femur, pelvic fracture and many bumps and bruises. She has had two emergency surgeries to repair her severe skull fracture and bleeding on the brain and her broken femur. She remained in critical condition in the ICU for one week and was transferred to the neurology unit for continued care. She has received amazing care at Children's Hospital. She has a very long road to recovery ahead of her physically, mentally and emotionally," said Leeann Hollingsworth.

CBS 58 spoke with a close family friend of the Hollingsworths. Kate Krzysik's daughter is best friends with Mackenzie.

"I do feel like a family member was critically injured in this tragic event. I'm sad something so nostalgic and so traditional is now a day that we will never forget and not in a good way," said Krzysik.

Friends and family say Mackenzie has a spirit unlike any other.

"Mackenzie beats to her own drum. She is a spitfire. She is energetic. She is sassy and she will tell you how it is," said Krzysik.

Krzysik says it's been hard for her daughter to understand what happened to her best friend.

"They will forever ask why do things like this happen? I think it's our job as adults and as a community to let them know it's not always like this," said Krzysik.

She hopes the community can continue to focus on the good moments.

"Things like Mackenzie waking up and coming to, and her mom saying she is that spitfire she has always been. That is our joy this year. I really just hope Mackenzie gets to come home for Christmas," said Krzysik.

Krzysik started a GoFundMe to help Mackenzie's family during this difficult time. If you'd like to donate, click here.

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