LAS CRUCES - Nearly three weeks after a head-on collision injured her and members of her family, Patricia Olson, incoming treasurer of the Las Cruces Association of Realtors, is recovering from multiple surgeries.

Olson, 42, her husband, Charles "Matt" Olson, 43, and their children Molly, 13, and Ryan, 11, were involved in a crash Nov. 27 on New Mexico Highway 404, known as the Anthony Gap.

Driver of the other vehicle, Samuel Kinch, 19, of Chaparral, was killed.

Matt, son of Chuck and Kathy Olson, former owners of Exit Realty, had been placed into a medically-induced coma while hospitalized in El Paso, but was recently moved to the Acute Care Hospital of Southern New Mexico in Las Cruces.

"I think he's making some progress," said Chuck Olson, who was president of LCAR in 2009. He said his son, who was driving the family's vehicle, has held his hand and seemed to acknowledge people in his room. "It's hopeful."

Eleven-year-old Ryan has an incision and a cast from being treated for internal and leg injuries while 13-year-old Molly was treated and released the day of the crash.

Isaac Chavez, chief executive officer of LCAR, said Patricia Olson was set to become the organization's treasurer in January, but has been extended an indefinite leave of absence.

"We're not concerned about that," Chavez said. "The leadership will just carry out her duties."

He said the most important thought for LCAR is that the Olson family recovers.

The Laura Reynolds Group announced

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through LCAR that a fund has been set up to assist the Olson family. The Las Cruces Church of Christ has agreed to collect the funds.

Kinch's vehicle drifted into oncoming traffic, according to authorities. New Mexico State Police said Kinch, who had just left work, may have fallen asleep. They reported that alcohol was not a factor in the crash. A third vehicle, driven by Daryll Henderson of Queen Creek, Ariz., was hit by debris. He received emergency treatment for injuries.

Brook Stockberger can be reached at (575) 541-5457

Olson fund

Donations are being collected to help the Olson family. If you wish to donate:

• Make checks payable to: Las Cruces Church of Christ and in the memo line put Olson fund.

• Send to:

Las Cruces Church of Christ

c/o Jeanne Coleman/Olson Family Fund

719 Lariat Drive

Las Cruces, NM 88011