MESA (AZFamily)— Friends and family describe Victoria Cardenas, 26, as a kind, caring and compassionate woman whose vibrant personality brings a smile to everyone around her.

Cardenas means a lot to a lot of people, and they’re not ready to say goodbye.

The East Valley business owner was involved in a horrific car accident monday afternoon and is currently in critical condition at Desert Banner Medical Center in Mesa.

Victoria’s mother, Amber Cardenas, said her daughter had to be extricated from the vehicle.

“It’s a miracle he’s alive,” Amber said. “She was trapped down there. There’s not much left of her car.”

Victoria was driving east on US 60 near the Ironwood exit when an older pickup truck carrying a flatbed full of long metal pipes crashed into her, authorities said.

The truck reportedly lost control, jackknifed and then veered across the median into oncoming traffic, hitting Victoria’s car.

She was rushed to hospital with multiple skull fractures and broken bones.

He is currently in a coma.

“I’m just trying to keep her calm because I know it’s scary,” Amber said. “I know he hears me, when he hears my voice I just say mommy is here, you’re in the hospital and you’re going to be fine, don’t be scared, I’m here.”

Victoria owns a pottery shop in Apache Junction called Tor’s promiser.

It’s a business her mother says her daughter is very passionate about.

Friends set up a GoFundMe page to help Victoria while she is in the hospital.

Everyone is hoping and praying that Victoria will recover.

“She’s a fighter,” mom Victoria said. “I know, I trust she will come back. I know my baby is going to be fine, I know that.”

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the truck driver was cited for failure to control his vehicle to avoid a collision and failure to wear a seat belt.

Additional fees may apply.

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