Support for ATV driver and family

Hi, we want to share a heartbreaking incident involving Eric or Rick as he's better known as, who was involved in a devastating accident in Sydenham on Sunday, August 10th, during the intense heat wave. He was out on his ATV, enjoying a typical day, when, unfortunately, the gravel caught the tire. Despite his best efforts to regain control, the ATV rolled multiple times down a steep 15-foot embankment, leaving him tragically trapped underneath for more than eight hours from 1 PM until nearly 10 PM—a truly unimaginable ordeal.

During this incredibly difficult time, he faced temperatures exceeding 40°C without any water, battling immense pain from four broken ribs, and with his right foot and leg pinned under the weight of the bike. He remained conscious, courageously fighting for his life and flashing his lights in hopes of drawing attention to his situation. Unfortunately, the bright daylight made it nearly impossible for any passing vehicles to notice him.

Just as hope seemed dim, around 9:45 PM, a team of firefighters returning from fighting local vegetation fires spotted the flickering of his lights. Thanks to a combination of luck and their unwavering persistence, they were able to find him and rescue him from this dire situation. Upon reaching the hospital, he was diagnosed with extreme dehydration due to the oppressive heat and discovered to have severe swelling in his leg that had been trapped under the bike, affecting his blood circulation.

The medical team acted quickly, to relieve the pressure on his leg, opening it from knee down to ankle to allow the tendons and muscles to breathe and begin to heal. Tragically, he never regained feeling in his foot since the incident, and after a thorough medical assessment, it has been determined that he will need a transfemoral amputation —a profoundly life-changing event that will require significant adjustments on his part as well as the family.

In response to this situation and his long recovery process, we are hoping to raise funds to alleviate some of the financial burden on his family during this incredibly challenging time.

Thank you for taking the time to read and for any support you may be able to provide whether a donation or simply sharing this campaign will help his family during this time.

Thank you for keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers.

https://www.kingstonist.com/news/south-frontenac-firefighters-keen-eye-saves-atv-rider-trapped-for-over-eight-hours/

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSAFJ49Cp/

August 21st

It has been 11 difficult days since the horrific accident that changed everything for Rick. Today marked a significant moment as he underwent amputation to address the injuries he sustained. The medical team made a careful decision to amputate 8 inches just below the knee, a reminder of the severity of the situation.

As the surgeons worked, everyone held their breath, hoping for the best possible outcome. There is a cautious optimism surrounding Rick's recovery; the doctors are doing everything they can to avoid the need for further surgeries in the future. The road ahead will still be challenging, but this surgery was a crucial step toward getting him back home. We continue to rally around him, offering support and encouragement as he begins this long journey to recovery.