This past February, Chris was riding his bicycle on Highway 33 in Ojai when he was struck by a car. The driver who hit him was later arrested for DUI. Chris has been riding this road for over thirty years and never imagined experiencing such a violent accident there.

He was hospitalized for three days and suffered serious injuries, including two fractures in his spine and a fractured rib. Chris is currently in a back brace and unable to work while he recovers.

Chris is a woodworker who specializes in traditional frame-making. He designs and builds beautiful closed-corner frames by hand, often carving and water-gilding them using traditional techniques. His work is meticulous and labor intensive, and unfortunately his injuries prevent him from returning to the shop for the foreseeable future.

To make matters more difficult, just two weeks before the accident Chris had to let his health insurance lapse after the cost for 2026 more than tripled. Like so many people, the increase simply became impossible to sustain.

The situation is even more challenging because the driver who hit him did not have auto insurance. Chris now faces the hardship of healing, unforeseen costs along with everyday living expenses while he's unable to work.

If you know Chris, you know he is someone who quietly supports others, takes pride in his work, and is one of the hardest workers you will ever meet. He never hesitates to lend a hand. Chris lives a life of gratitude and feels deeply fortunate to have survived this accident.

Any help during this difficult time would mean the world to him as he focuses on healing and getting back on his feet.

Thank you for your support, kindness, and encouragement.

Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing this page, will help Chris focus on healing and getting back to the work he loves.