Our friend Rick needs your help
Three years ago, Rick Cigile suffered a catastrophic accident while on vacation in Florida. While swimming in the ocean with his family, Rick was hit from behind by a rogue wave which drove him head first in to a sand bar. Rick suffered a C-4, C-5 incomplete spinal cord injury and as a result was paralyzed from the shoulders down.
Soon after, Rick began a high intensity training program which has allowed him to regain physical functions and neuro-sensitivity from head to toe. Rick's continued fight has resulted in improvement beyond what his doctors thought possible. The longer he continues with this physical and occupatioal therapy, the more movement and control he is regaining. Without this therapy Rick's health would greatly diminish. We are confident that with the right care he can make even greater progress.
Before his accident, Rick was very active and worked as a deputy sheriff for the Oakland County Sheriff's Department. Rick worked in many areas of law enforcement; he was a member of the motor unit, dive rescue team, tactical unit, corrections and road patrol services. He also had the distinguished honor of providing executive protection and motorcade duties for four U.S. Presidents and Pope Saint John Paul II during their visits to Southeast Michigan. In spite of the many struggles he faces, Rick remains positive that he will be able to return to a productive life in the community and perhaps someday resume coaching youth ice hockey. Rick has helped and affected the lives of countless people in a positive way.
Even with insurance, Rick continues to have many uninsured injury-related expenses such as: co-pays and deductibles, doctor visits and the costly rehab therapy that is so beneficial to Rick's overall outcome. He also has the wish that someday he will be able to purchase a new van. Over time, these expenses will run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars and he so desperately needs your help.
Please consider donating to help cover the cost of Rick's SCI recovery. Any amount is appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please share this page with others who may be able to help.
We appreciate all of the well wishes. Please continue to keep Rick in your prayers.
