Ricky's Road to Recovery

Like many people suffering from depression, 18-year-old Ricky Pool looked to the world like a happy, smart, handsome, witty and talented young man. He ran cross country, played multiple musical instruments, and was waiting for college acceptance letters. But on March 9th, Ricky's illness led him to attempt suicide. He sustained extensive injuries, including a traumatic spine injury, and will likely never walk again. He has undergone multiple surgeries, and his medical team is working nonstop to improve his quality of life as much as possible.

Ricky’s family -- Dan, Donna and younger brother Ben -- face major expenses to modify their home in preparation for his return and further costs related to his rehabilitation. For starters, because even the first floor of their house has multiple steps throughout, they’ll need to install wheelchair ramps so Ricky can get around. A complete remodel of the downstairs bathroom will be required to make it accessible for him. Other modifications will be needed throughout the house to allow Ricky to engage in the simple daily life activities most of us take for granted.

Once he’s released from the hospital, Ricky’s rehabilitation is likely to be at a facility in Vallejo, which means a daily 100-mile round trip drive from Elk Grove for his family. As we all know, with the current cost of gas, that alone will be a significant expense.

At the same time, Dan and Donna’s income from work will clearly take a hit as they take time off to care for their son.

“Ricky’s Road to Recovery” is asking for everyone to contribute whatever they can to help offset these expenses for the Pools. And we’re asking for you to think of your contribution in terms of mismatched socks. Yes, *socks*. You see, ever since Ricky was a little kid, his signature look has been wearing crazy colorful mismatched knee socks. So… if a pair of knee socks at Target costs about $7.50 (and of course you need TWO pairs to make a mismatched set) maybe think of a donation of $15 in terms of what you might have spent to buy Ricky a couple pairs of mismatched socks? Or $30 for two mismatched sets... or an entire dresser drawer full if you are able? In the comments section, you can tell us what patterns or colors of socks you imagine Ricky might be wearing.

Thanks to everyone who has reached out so far to ask what they can do to help. The Pools are deeply grateful to their incredible network of friends and family who have shown them so much support. They have a long road ahead of them, but with your help, Ricky's road to recovery will be a lot smoother.