Greetings Phriends and members of the Phish community,

This is my dear friend Steve Watts.

Many of you reading this may only be in my life because of Steve. In the summer of 1998, when I had stepped away from the Phish scene, Steve convinced me to come out of “Phish retirement,” get back on the train, and head to Europe. That trip changed the course of my life. Like so many of us, the friendships, memories, and sense of community from Phish shows became something truly sacred.

Steve has always been that kind of person — someone who brings people together. He’s a passionate music lover and a talented guitar player himself, someone who truly understands the magic of live music and the way it connects people.

But today, Steve needs our help.

On April 26, 2014, Steve suffered a devastating injury during an amateur MMA fight that broke his C3 vertebrae. Before that day, Steve was an extraordinary athlete — a New Jersey state champion wrestler in high school and later a world-traveling Jiu Jitsu competitor and champion.

That injury left Steve a quadriplegic.

Today he lives in Florida with his parents and requires 24-hour care, supported by a team of caregivers. Life for Steve is incredibly challenging, and he has endured several extended hospital stays in recent months. Right now, more than anything, he could use something powerful to lift his spirits.

And for Steve, that something is live music.

It has been 10 years since he’s been able to make it to a Phish show, and despite everything he has endured, one dream still burns bright for him: seeing Phish again surrounded by the friends and community he loves.

Steve had hoped to make it to Las Vegas for the Sphere shows, but the logistics and costs made it impossible. So we pivoted and began planning a meetup for the Savannah shows instead.

Travel for Steve is extremely complicated. It requires specialized transportation, medical coordination, caregivers traveling with him, and accessible accommodations. The costs add up quickly, but with the help of this incredible community, we believe we can make it happen.

Because if the Phish community is anything, it’s a family that shows up for each other.

We’re hoping that Phriends, phans, and anyone moved by Steve’s story can help make this trip possible. Our goal is to cover the travel, care, and logistical costs needed to get Steve safely to Savannah so he can once again experience the music, joy, and connection that have meant so much to him throughout his life.

If Steve has ever shared a moment, a laugh, a show, or a friendship with you — or if you simply believe in helping someone experience something beautiful again — please consider contributing.

Every donation helps. And if you’re not able to donate, sharing this page with the community can make just as big of a difference.

If you’re part of the Phish community, please consider sharing this with your Phish groups, tour friends, and anyone who understands what this music and community mean.

Let’s help Steve get back on the train.

Because as this community has always reminded us…

WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

With love and gratitude,

Spencer Short