Community rallies behind beloved bartender critically injured in accident

CENTER CITY (WTXF) - Three weeks after a car accident left a beloved local bartender in critical condition, the community is rallying behind the woman it calls "Sheila our sunshine."

Sheila Modglin, 56, suffered severe head trauma and broken bones when she was struck by a car the night of the Eagles' Super Bowl victory parade.

"It was heartbreaking," friend Lauren Vidas told FOX 29. "Because she is such a ball of positive energy and light and kindness."

Now Sheila, a longtime bartender at Dirty Franks, is being lifted up by the customers whose lives she's touched.

On Sunday, crowds of people flocked to 13th and Pine Streets in Center City for some beer, snacks and a few raffle tickets to assist with Sheila's recovery.

"You see people who maybe haven't been to this bar in 20 years, who moved out of city and have come to pay [their] respects," Vidas said. "The fact she touched so many lives is absolutely incredible."

Sheila's impact can also be felt in Upper Darby. Her non-profit, Sunshine Arts, aims to inspire children in the neighborhood to embrace the creative arts and feel a sense of community.

"The kids are missing her," Sheila's brother, Rick, told FOX 29. "They've all written notes, letters and cards."

According to Rick, the driver who hit his sister likely saved her life, immediately calling for help.

The road to recovery, though, is expected to be a long and expensive one, particularly without health insurance.

"We've been informed that it'll be 24-hour nursing care after rehab," Rick said. "It could be a year before she's able to work again."

Family and friends hope that Sunday's fundraiser will help soften the financial blow.

Sheila's family is currently accepting donations via GoFundMe. Donations can also be made out to Kathy Kalafut, 27 Paper Mill Road, Springfield, Pa. 19064.