Help Ken Heal and Get Back on His Bike
Donation protected
Hi friends and fellow cyclists! My name is Erin, and I’m reaching out on behalf of a Ken, who was involved in a bike crash on June 19. Ken is an avid rider and a passionate community activist. You have certainly seen Ken on the weekly Northwest Bike Bus, at every Bike Grid Now jam for safe streets , and various other social justice events, including recent Bring Chicago Home and Ceasefire protests. He is known for his custom signs and loud sleigh bells.
The Crash
Ken hit a pothole on his bike which resulted in a significant crash. He was with fellow riders who were able to get him an ambulance, securely store his bike, and spend the day at the hospital ensuring he received good care. I am acting as his emergency contact and supporting him with scheduling follow up appointments.
Ken's injuries include a dislocated finger, broken nose, broken hand (which needs surgery), broken tooth, and various cuts and abrasions. Thankfully his helmet prevented worse head injuries. He is in good spirits but very concerned about costs of medical treatment, as well as travel limitations without being able to ride his bike.
The Need
Ken now faces a long road to recovery. While he is resilient (and was bragging about his pain tolerance as the doctor reset the bones in his hand this morning!!), the financial burden of this crash is overwhelming. Ken needs support for:
- Emergency medical care: He will need funds to cover his medical deductible, dental services, and unpredictable incidentals.
- Bike repairs and a new helmet: Ken’s bike was his primary means of transportation. Repairing it and ensuring he has a high-quality helmet is essential.
- Groceries and transportation: With Ken unable to ride during his recovery, he needs assistance with everyday essentials, including groceries and alternate transportation to-and-from appointments.
How You Can Help
We are humbly asking for your support to raise $5,000 to cover these expenses. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference for Ken and help him get back on his feet.
Your generosity will not only help Ken recover physically, but I know that it will also lift his spirits during this challenging time. He has poured so much of his heart and soul into Chicago's activist communities, and he would be absolutely tickled to see your donations and messages of support.
His last words to us after he was discharged and on his way home were, "maybe they'll resurface the roads now?" Even when dealing with the pain of his injuries, he was thinking about how sharing his story could improve road conditions for his fellow cyclists!
Please consider donating and sharing this campaign widely with your network. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness!
In solidarity,
Erin and the Chicago, Bike Grid Now! organizers
Organizer
Erin Kwiatkowski
Organizer
Chicago, IL