hamachi@RENOIR.BERKELEY.EDU (Gordon Hamachi) (03/08/86)
One of the riders in last year's RAAM was struck by a hit-and-run motorist during the event, and is now paralyzed from the waist down. At the end of the ABC coverage of the race, they flashed the address where donations can be sent for his rehabilitation. Does anyone have that address? Also, can someone post information on the current status of this unlucky cyclist?
blb@cbdkc1.UUCP ( Ben Branch 3E293 CB x4790 WSB ) (03/11/86)
From the March Ultra Marathon Cycling Assocation newsletter: Wayne Phillips is the 36 year old Richmond, B.C. cyclist who was struck by a hit and run driver last July 25th during the Race Across AMerica bicycle endurance event. Wayne is now undergoing a regular program of physical and occupational therapy at the best rehabilitation facility in British Columbia. You may write or drop in for a visit at G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Center, 4255 Laurel St., Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 2G9. Tel. 604-734-1313. The paralysis that occurred as a result of the July 25th collision remains, affecting his body below mid-chest, and the attending physicians now give him only a remote chance of ever walking again. He was very fortunate in that his hard-shell helmet saved him from any brain injury, but nerve damage in his left shoulder may leave a permanent disability in that arm. His attitude is quite positive, and he anxiously looked forward to being transferred to the rehabilitation center. Letters and cards have poured in from all over the continent, with donations to the Trust Fund, thanks to publicity from the major cycling publications, as well as grass roots work by friends and co-workers. Wayne has repeatedly expressed his delight at receiving mail, and his deep appreciation for the concern epxressed by all correspondents. Well-known endurance cyclists Lon Haldeman and Susan Notorangelo have recently announced that they will be raising funds on behalf of Wayne during their 1986 Tandem Transcontinental Record Attempt, scheduled to start April 12th. NORCO PRODUCTS, a bicycle wholesale firm, has funded production of a lovely poster which is available for $3 plus a donation to the Wayne Phillips Trust Fund. There remains problems with insurance coverage, as the main insurer has refused to accept liability based on a clause that restricts coverage if the insured is participating in a "speed contest" or "race". The police investigation has failed to turn up any solid clues, though it appears more likely that Wayne was hit deliberately. The Fund address is: Wayne Phillips Trust Fund PO Box 34233, Stn. D, Vancouver, B.C., V6J 4N8. If the giver requires a Canadian tax deductible receipt, please contact Danelle Laidlaw at the Bicycling Assocation of B.C, 1200 Hornby St., Vancouver, B.C. V6Z 2E2, 604-687-3333 ext. 221.