VORTEX - Caring for Caras

David Caras, US Coast Guard veteran, Southeastern Guide Dogs Puppy Raiser and friend and supporter to many, was critically injured Aug. 28, in Layton, Utah, while jogging. Dave lives in St. Petersburg, Fla., but was working in Utah when he was struck by an SUV. He was due to come home to St. Petersburg on Friday, Aug. 29, but instead was airlifted from Layton to University of Utah Hospital, where he's in ICU.

Dave sustained the loss of his right leg above the knee, a fractured hip, a head wound, broken ribs and possibly other injuries. It is not known yet the magnitude of his injuries and what his outcome will be. It is the hope and belief of Dave's family and friends that he will recover, and that he will thrive with a prosthetic leg, which will allow him to return to his passion for running and competing in triathlons.

Dave is not only a wonderful person, but is a friend to all - from coaching a blind triathlete to supporting new Southeastern Guide Dogs volunteers through his work as a puppy raiser. Dave coined the term VORTEX to describe what happens when someone becomes a puppy raiser. You enter a realm of existence, which because of of it's amazingly magnetic attraction of helping those in need through training adorable labrador puppies, you also meet an amazing group of friends who become family. Once you're in the VORTEX, you don't want to leave, because of the selfless work you do to raise a pup only to return it to the school so that it can help someone else, but moreso because of the equally selfless people you meet along the way who aren't simply "other volunteers," but friends and if you're lucky, family. Dave is not only a friend, but is brother, buddy, son, and family to many. We can't let him down when he needs us. 

The costs associated with this tragedy are not only related to medical care. Last-minute travel to Utah after the accident, and extended hotel stays by Dave's family are expenses that no one planned for and that can be taxing on anyone. These and any ongoing rehabilitaton Dave will need as he embarks on this journey are just a couple of the ways your donation will help ease this journey for Dave and his family.

Donating any amount to Dave's VORTEX will be greatly appreciated and will help Dave heal, regain independence and live the life he deserves.