Hi, my name is Maria, I'm fund-raising for Fon.

Fon has suffered a devastating loss: over $20,000 worth of professional camera equipment was stolen from him. This wasn’t just gear—it was his livelihood. Fon worked long and hard his entire life to earn the privilege to do the thing that makes his soul sing! He believed he was fully insured, but the insurers are giving Fon the runaround with loopholes and red tape - they have now formally denied his claim! The police have told him the chances of recovery are slim. He is crushed.

We are hoping to get enough to replace one of Fon's professional cameras and lenses to get him back up and running - possibly both, if he can find them second-hand. He can then build up the rest of his accessories as and when he can.

Fon is a man whose photographs speak louder than words. For decades, he’s captured the soul of the American West—wild horses moving through dust and silence, desert light dancing across canyon walls, quiet encounters with bears, bees, and the wind itself. His lens doesn’t just document landscapes—it builds relationships. Nowhere is that more evident than in the Rodeo and Barrel Racing world, where Fon’s images pulse with adrenaline, grit, and grace. He’s not just a photographer there—he’s family. The community has embraced him wholeheartedly, and his work reflects that trust: riders mid-flight, horses coiled with power, moments of triumph and tenderness frozen in time.

At 74 years young, Fon is living a hard-earned life that brings him peace. His “retirement” (which only began last year!) was never about rest—it was about purpose. He travels the country, capturing images that inspire us, and soothes his soul.

Without his equipment, Fon is stranded. The life he’s built is at risk. And while he’d never ask for help himself, his friends and supporters are asking on his behalf.

Fon is family, and it breaks my heart to see him in this position. He is a truly remarkable and kind individual, the first to offer help to others, and was there to support me when each of my parents passed. He is deeply loved by those who know him, and those who follow his work. Wild horse lovers, nature enthusiasts, and everyday people who’ve found something sacred in his mages, and in his company! We are all rallying now.

Fon has been deeply moved by the kindness and encouragement pouring in via his Facebook page. Every message, every gesture, every offer of help has reminded him that he’s not alone – it’s what’s keeping him going and giving him hope.

But we need more than love—we need action.

This is a big loss, and we’re reaching out to anyone and everyone who’s ever been touched by Fon’s work—or simply believes in helping someone rebuild what matters most.

This GoFundMe is about restoring Fon’s ability to keep going. To keep creating. To keep sharing the quiet beauty of the world.

Every donation—large or small—helps Fon rebuild. Helps him return to the wild places he loves. Helps him bring us the images that remind us what stillness, patience, and wonder look like.

We are profoundly grateful for the support already shown. Let’s keep that momentum going. Let’s show Fon that his work—and his spirit—matter deeply.