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BU Student Injured In New Zealand Crash Heads Home

BOSTON (CBS) - A Boston University student headed home on an 18-hour flight Wednesday, one month after a horrific crash killed three of her classmates in New Zealand.

Meg Theriault, 21, is on what's called a "medi-flight" back to Boston.

She was in a medically induced coma for two weeks following brain surgery. Theriault grew up in Salisbury.

She was the most seriously injured of four survivors. Daniela Rosanna Lekhno, 20, Roch Jauberty, 21, and Austin Brashears, 21, all died at the scene.

Officials in New Zealand say Stephen Houseman was driving a mini-van when he lost control.

Houseman pleaded guilty to careless driving Wednesday. He does not face jail time but he has lost his license for six months and must pay court costs.

The group of international students were on their way to a hike at Tongariro Crossing on May 12th.

Theriault's parents, Todd and Deb Theriault, released this statement on the hospital's website before leaving New Zealand.

"Because of all of the care, love and prayers Meg has received since the accident on May 12, she is now on her way home with us to Boston. It was four weeks ago that we received the news that our daughter and her friends had been in a tragic car accident. The lives of all of the families of this wonderful group of young students were turned upside down and we continue to support each other as we move forward.

"It has been a much different journey than what these adventurous students had originally planned. Our experiences have taught us to look at the world through very different eyes.

"We just cannot find the words to thank the staff at Waikato Hospital and the wonderful Kiwis that have made us feel so welcome here.

"There are too many special individuals to name. As we land in Boston, we will be back with Meg's extended family and so many of her friends that have sent their love and prayers to her from the other side of the world.

"The journey will continue there, but we know in our hearts that Meg will work to heal and return to finish her studies at Boston University.

"Our entire family wants to express their appreciation to everyone on both sides of the world that have helped to bring Meg home."

Deb Theriault said her daughter would return to New Zealand once she finished her studies at Boston University.

"She will thank everyone in person and she will do that Tongariro Crossing. She's a determined girl and as a family we'll be here to support her," she said on the hospital's website.

You can follow Bree on Twitter @BreeSison.

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