Andrew Cross accident: GoFundMe raises over $139,000 as YouTuber in stable condition after sustaining brain injury in crash

YouTube - Source: Getty
YouTube Logo with black background - Source: Getty

Andrew Cross, known as 'Desert Drifter' on YouTube, is making progress in his recovery after a serious car accident on January 31, 2025. His family has been sharing updates, noting that his brain bleed has stabilized, his MRI showed no stroke in the upper brain, and his cervical and lumbar spine appear normal.

The GoFundMe campaign with an initial goal of $190k for supporting Andrew Cross's medical expenses has already raised over $139k. Most people who have donated include fans and viewers of his YouTube channel.

Larry Hudlemeyer, one of the top donators, wrote:

"Sorry to hear about Andrew's accident. I have thoroughly enjoyed his adventures and the respect he demonstrate towards the sites he visits. Sending prayers to you and Andrew through the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, asking for an uneventful and speedy recovery. Stay strong Ms Evelyn! From the Jemez Mountains of Northern New Mexico...."

Robin Hickman, a donor from Canada, wrote:

"Sending love, gratitude and best wishes from two Canadian viewers of Andrew’s wonderful YouTube Channel. Robin & Mary"

Roseann Reichert, from Australia, expressed:

"I know it's only a small amount but at least it will buy you lunch in the hospital. Me and my Mum watch his videos all the way over here in Sydney, Australia. He has taught us so much about the history over there...it has been so interesting; we love his videos. We would never have known any of this if it wasn't for him."
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Recent updates on Andrew Cross's medical condition

According to regular updates on a Caring Bridge page, Andrew Cross was involved in a severe car accident while returning from filming at Bears Ears. Following the crash, he underwent emergency brain surgery to control bleeding and was placed in the ICU. His wife shared that he remained stable post-surgery and was scheduled for an MRI to assess any additional injuries.

On February 2, updates on Andrew Cross's condition brought some positive news. His MRI showed no signs of stroke in the upper brain, and both his cervical and lumbar spine appeared normal. His brain pressure remained stable, and the brain bleed had not worsened. While Andrew’s condition showed improvement, Evelyn asked for continued prayers, particularly for the prevention of blood clots in his brain’s main arteries, no permanent damage to his thoracic spine, and overall healing.

By February 3, further progress was reported by Andrew Cross's wife. A CT scan confirmed the brain bleed remained stable, allowing doctors to start Andrew on an anticoagulant (heparin) to reduce the risk of blood clots. His medical team, including a neurosurgeon who has been a fan of his channel since its inception, decided to briefly lift his sedation for a neuro exam.

During this time, he showed a negative Babinski reflex and some response to pain—signs of hopeful neurological function. Additionally, doctors are monitoring a finding on his brain stem that could be a stroke or an artifact, with a repeat MRI planned for further assessment.

Andrew Cross's condition remains serious, but his family is encouraged by these positive steps. His loved ones continue to request prayers for his ongoing recovery, especially for the stabilization of his brain bleed, the prevention of further complications, and his ability to breathe independently.

Edited by Sangeeta Mathew
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