My husband Eric Orengo is 28 years old and has always been the most lovable, big-hearted man I know. He was on his way home from work—an hour-long commute—when his life changed in an instant. While riding his moped, a Ford F150 truck swerved into the bike lane and hit him directly from behind at about 75mph. The impact threw Eric from his scooter, and the truck partially ran him over before speeding away. For nearly 40 minutes, Eric lay on the road with a very kind woman that noticed his white socks and stopped to help him while waiting for the ambulance to arrive. His moped was folded in half, and his helmet was found across the street.

Eric suffered a spine injury, a severe scalp laceration that required reattachment, a broken right leg, a fractured left knee, a fractured rib, and a neck fracture. He was airlifted to the HCA Orange Park Trauma Center in Jacksonville, where he faces a long and difficult recovery. Despite everything, Eric’s sense of humor and gentle spirit still shine through, even during his brief moments of wakefulness in the hospital.

Eric is the only source of income for me and our three dogs. With his injuries, he won’t be able to return to work for at least a year, and I am currently unable to work due to now having to care for him through his recovery. We are facing mounting medical bills and the challenge of maintaining our home and caring for our pets. We are reaching out for help to support Eric and me through this incredibly tough time. Any donation, share, or kind word will make a difference and help us hold onto what Eric has worked so hard for. Thank you for your support and compassion.