Help Oscar relearn to walk

On Monday, August 12th, Oscar was hit by a city garbage truck while biking in Düsseldorf during his first trip to Europe. He hit the windshield and was thrown roughly 30 ft onto the pavement. Paramedics at the scene were uncertain of his chance for survival. He broke both hips, his pelvis, his tailbone, and had open fractures to both tibia (shin bones). He has already had two surgeries and is awaiting more. Once healed, he faces a long recovery with intensive physiotherapy while he relearns to walk. With both legs and both hips broken, this will be a slow and complicated journey. Germany offers excellent physiotherapy programs but they are very expensive and not covered by his insurance. Oscar needs this therapy to heal properly and his home on Vancouver Island cannot offer him the support he needs.

Please help Oscar get the needed therapy so that he can heal and walk again.

Oscar is 22 and has been an avid cyclist for years, a gym enthusiast, a long-time baseball umpire, and an overall active and happy guy. He is well loved in his community and by his family and long-time girlfriend. He is known for his generosity. He tips lavishly, gives whatever he has to whoever needs it, regardless of whether or not he knows them. He brings donations of clothing and necessities to people facing homelessness and/or struggling with addictions.

On the day of the accident, Oscar’s family had hours of worry, not sure where he was when he didn’t return from his bike ride. They called his phone, tried to track his location, called hospitals and police stations with no word. He was found by chance when the coverage of his accident hit the local media almost 5 hours later.

Oscar was very lucky. He had only mild head trauma, and no spinal or abdominal injuries. Every day Oscar expresses how lucky he is, how grateful he is to be alive, and how dedicated he is to his recovery. Those who know Oscar, know that he has an indomitable spirit and is a deeply kind young man. He loves to cycle more than anything and is dedicated to getting back on his bike.

Oscar’s best chance of regaining full mobility is if he stays in Germany in order to access the comprehensive physio program they provide.

Oscar’s insurance does not cover this treatment. The program is very expensive and will also involve an extended stay in Germany. Please consider helping Oscar by donating whatever you can. Every little bit helps.