In late August, our dear friend Rick suffered a devastating fall that left him with fractures to his C6 and C7 vertebrae. Since then, he has been transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, a world-renowned facility for spinal cord injuries. There, Rick spends 4–5 hours each day in intensive therapy. The center is providing him with cutting-edge treatment, advanced technology, and the best possible path towards improved strength and quality of life.

(To get updates on Rick's journey, please visit Rick's CaringBridge)

While Rick is making progress, the road ahead is long and costly. At some point, he will return home to Pittsburgh, but his home must undergo extensive renovations to make it accessible and safe for him. These needs include:

Creating a first-floor bedroom and fully adaptive bathroom

Installing ramps and removing carpeting

Purchasing a wheelchair and mobility van

Installing lifts for safe transfers from bed to chair

A hospital bed that adjusts to prevent bedsores and support transfers

And countless other adaptive devices to support his daily life

While it’s incredible to live in a time when technology offers so many solutions, insurance doesn’t always cover what’s truly needed. For example, insurance may cover a basic hospital bed, but not one that adjusts appropriately to prevent bedsores or safely raise Rick for transfers. These expenses add up quickly, and the costs of adaptive care and equipment can be overwhelming.

Rick has always been a fighter, a loyal friend, and a true community advocate. Now, it’s our turn to fight for him. By contributing, you’ll help alleviate the financial burden on Rick, Sue, and their family, giving Rick the best chance at continued improvement and quality of life.

If you are able, please give what you can. Every gift makes a difference in helping Rick on his journey to recovery.