My name is Diab Shehadeh, and as many of you know — and for those who don’t — I was in a serious work accident this past March.

While taking out the trash late one night, my phone accidentally fell into a large dumpster. When I climbed in to retrieve it, the cleaning crew, unaware that I was inside, closed the doors and turned on the trash compactor. I was crushed twice and trapped for over an hour and a half before police and firefighters were able to rescue me. The trash was so compacted around my legs the firemen said it was like concrete.

My right ankle was shattered, and several bones in my left foot were fractured. After surgery, I spent two weeks in the hospital and another two in rehab, followed by seven months (and counting) of physical therapy.

Although we won the workers’ compensation case, I haven’t yet received any payments. I’m still not physically able to return to full-time work — especially on the ice, which I love — and it’s been extremely difficult getting by with little to no income.

To make matters harder, my truck — my main way of getting to appointments and work — has broken down several times, costing hundreds (if not thousands) in repairs. At this point, it needs to be replaced.

With the help of my sister, I’ve started this GoFundMe to help cover transportation costs and get back on my feet, literally and financially. Any contribution, big or small, means the world to me and brings me one step closer to recovery and independence.

Thank you all for your kindness, support, and generosity.

— Diab