Spence Young was biking to work at Trader Joe’s on November 8th. As he was riding in the designated bike lane, a driver unexpectedly merged into the lane without signaling, crushing Spence’s left leg and ankle. The impact was sudden and severe, leaving him unable to stand or walk without immediate medical attention.

The driver acknowledged fault right away and supported him until emergency services arrived. However, the damage to Spence’s leg is significant. Doctors have made it clear that he’ll need a minimum of three months (likely longer) before he can safely return to the physically demanding work he does every day. For someone whose job requires constant movement, lifting, and long hours on his feet, this injury means an abrupt and total halt to his livelihood.

This accident couldn’t have come at a more difficult time for Spence. Most of us would rely on family during something like this, but Spence doesn’t have much of a family network left. In September he returned from helping his mother in Texas through ongoing medical concerns as her only family left. His brother’s passing three years ago has left a lasting hole in his support system. His coworkers are, in many ways, the people he has in the world.

As a result, Spence is now facing probable surgery, an extended period of recovery, physical therapy, and limited mobility. This unexpected accident has put him in a difficult place financially at a time when his focus needs to be on healing, not worrying about how to stay afloat.

Through all of this, it’s important to remember who Spence is. He reliably shows up to work, stays late when needed, and always goes the extra mile. He helps not because anyone’s watching, but because he genuinely cares. He’s the kind of person who helps out just because it’s the right thing to do, often putting others before himself. He’s the steady, humble presence who keeps everything moving, even when the job gets tough or the days get long.

The goal money is going towards monthly expenses, missed wages and medical bills. Simba and Alvie are Spence’s two cats who mean the world to him. Your support will help keep them safe and sheltered during the months he’s unable to work.

We know money is tight for a lot of people right now. Anything you’re able to give, even just sharing this fundraiser, helps more than you might realize.