"WOW - didn't see that coming!" Those were Phil's words to me  when he called me from the SICU at St. Francis Hospital on Monday, June 6. Phil had texted me and said that he had been hit by a car while on his bike and had some spinal fractures. Given Phil's natural inclination for joking, I responded, "ARE YOU SERIOUS?" He then called me and told me that he was finishing his morning bike ride (Phil was riding in the Great Cycle Challenge this month to raise money to fight Kid's Cancer) when he was hit by a vehicle from behind. Phil thought he was going about 20 mph and the vehicle was going about 45 mph. The crash resulted in spinal fractures and bleeding in his leg that required immediate vascular surgery. Phil said that his spinal cord  was intact. Phil has since developed several pulmonary embolisms, or blood clots in his lungs and instead of beginning his inpatient rehab journey today, Thursday, June 9, he was sent back to the SICU for treatment. 

Phil has had more than his share of medical  issues with multiple surgeries and complications related to ulcerative colitis in the past 4+ years - yet has remained the most positive and encouraging person most of us have ever had the privilege of knowing. Phil posts a daily photo and words of encouragement with a scripture on Facebook and texts the message to dozens of friends each day! Now it's Phil's turn to be encouragedPlease lift Phil and Sharon and their daughters, Allison and Alexa, up in prayer first and foremost. There are now many unplanned medical expenses and a financial burden placed on Phil, who will be unable to work for a minimum of 12 weeks. Phil's goal is to raise the money that he needs to meet his financial obligations while he is unable to work. Please consider donating to this gofundme as a way to encourage Phil and bless him and his family. Please feel free to share this link on your Facebook or other social media accounts as well. Thank you on behalf of Phil and family.  As Phil LOVES to say, "Never, never, never give up!"