GoFundMe accounts set up for two South Florida cyclists
Two separate cyclists are in need of GoFundMe accounts after being hit by vehicles in the last few weeks.
According to a GoFundMe, Miami cyclist Leo Rodgers was hit by an SUV while riding his bike to work and suffered a broken neck. As of Jan. 8, Rodgers’ GoFund Me has collected $76,558 of $130,000 goal.
Rodgers, who according to the GoFundMe, which was organized by Crust Bikes co-owner Angelica Casaverde, lost his leg in a motorcycle accident about a decade ago. Rodgers is sponsored by Crust Bikes.
“He was very lucky to survive,” Casaverde wrote. “Leo being Leo, made the most of his new life with one leg. He dubbed himself ‘The Black Flamingo’. Leo found an outlet in bicycles and has been the laughter and light in cycling communities across the country, from Tampa to Costa Mesa, and countless places in between. He used his platform to fundraise and provide bicycles for children living in underprivileged communities. He wanted to share the life-changing magic of bikes with others, including his 6-yr old son, Junior. It is hard to put into words the impact Leo has made in the cycling community. He is a presence that brings a smile to your face.”
In addition to a broken neck, Rodgers is also facing paralysis.
“As I am writing this he is just gaining some feeling in one of his hands and one arm. It is still uncertain whether Leo will regain feeling and movement in his lower body,” Casaverde wrote.
On the Western side of the state, Brenda Barnes, of Lehigh Acres, has established a GoFundMe for her son, Edward, who was hit by a motorcycle while riding his bike on Jan. 2. As of Jan. 8 Barnes has raised $2,635 of $20,000 goal.
“He has undergone two surgeries so far,” Barnes wrote in the GoFundMe. “He is now homeless, has no insurance and will be in recovery for at least a year requiring physical therapy and special medical equipment. He is struggling financially, emotionally and mentally … Edward comes from a good family. He has a good heart. He really needs this chance to start over. Family and friends are praying for him and our family, but he also really needs financial help.”