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Family Of Teen Who Lost Legs In Train Accident Talks About Injuries

DENVER (CBS4)- The family of Anna Beninati, the teen who fell while attempting to board a train, which severed her legs, released a statement on Friday.

"Anna is awake and understands the extent of her injuries. She is surrounded by family and friends at her bedside who are offering comfort and support.

Anna is a vibrant young woman who combines her passion for music with a passion for helping autistic children, having mentored these special children while in high school. Anna found the best of both words at CSU, where she has chosen to major in music therapy and eventually work with children with autism spectrum disorders.

We appreciate the heartwarming of support shown to Anna by the community and her new friends in Fort Collins. We are also grateful for the care she is receiving at Denver Health Medical Center.

Anna's close friends know her by Rush, a nickname she earned from a school teacher not by rushing through assignments, but for her eagerness to see what is next. Anna is an adventurer by heart, and we believe this experience will make her stronger on her next adventure."

Beninati, 17, is a freshman at Colorado State University. She fell on Sept. 5 while attempting to board a train in Longmont. Anna was airlifted to Denver Health Medical Center and remains in serious condiiton.

Police said Beninati, along with her friends, three males ages 17 to 20, were in Denver earlier Monday when they were dropped off in Longmont to try and catch the train so they could get to Fort Collins. Beninati apparently tried to hop onto the train as it moved northbound about 18 mph on the tracks, but in her attempt she slipped and fell underneath the train causing it to run over her legs.

Her legs were severed at the knees as a result.

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