In the close-knit community of Winnipeg, where the love for basketball runs deep, one name stands out: Larry Hayes. For over three decades, Larry has been a dedicated basketball referee, officiating at all levels of competition. His passion for the game and his unwavering commitment have earned him the admiration and respect of players, coaches, and fans. However, on that fateful Monday, May 15th, 2023, Larry’s life took an unexpected turn when he was involved in a horrific biking accident. Alone and injured on the side of the highway, Larry’s future was uncertain. In the face of adversity, the community of Winnipeg rallied together, proving that in times of tragedy, the strength of a community shines through.
Larry’s family, with heavy hearts, took to social media to share the news of his accident. He had hit a massive rut while riding his e-bike and was thrown off, rendering him unconscious. He received immediate medical attention only through the timely intervention of a motorist who spotted Larry and called 911. After extensive tests, it was determined that he sustained the following injuries:
- 8 bilateral broken ribs
- An aorta tear
- A broken shoulder blade
- Spinal injuries
- Ruptured tendons in his neck
- Loss of mobility in his arms and loss of his front teeth
- Collapsed lung
- Small arterial bleed
- Bloodclothes
- Fluid in the lungs
Larry’s impact on the basketball community in Winnipeg was immediately evident as coaches, players, and fellow referees rallied around him. They shared heartfelt messages, offered their thoughts and prayers, and shared fond memories of Larry’s contributions to the sport they all loved. But the support did not stop there. Beyond the confines of the basketball world, the entire community joined hands to lift Larry and his family in this challenging time.
Realizing the extensive road to recovery that awaited Larry, his daughters and son initiated a GoFundMe campaign. They aimed to alleviate the financial burdens of the long and arduous journey ahead. The campaign aimed to support Larry’s rehabilitation process, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, home-care nursing, dental surgery, continuous monitoring, and possible subsequent surgeries.
The overwhelming response to the campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. Donations flooded in from friends, family, acquaintances, and even strangers touched by Larry’s story. The outpouring of generosity spoke volumes about the compassion and solidarity that the people of Winnipeg possessed.
Larry’s family, humbled by the tremendous support they received, expressed their deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed. They acknowledged that the journey to recovery would be long and challenging but expressed hope that Larry would make a mostly full recovery in time. The doctors provided a glimmer of hope, emphasizing that Larry could regain mobility and require much care and support.
As Larry continues his battle toward recovery, his community remains unwavering in their support. They understand that the journey will require strength, perseverance, and unity. They stand ready to offer assistance through financial contributions, well wishes or simply being there for Larry and his family.
In the face of adversity, the community of Winnipeg demonstrated the true meaning of solidarity and compassion. Larry Hayes was surrounded by unwavering support from all corners of the city. The heartwarming response to the GoFundMe campaign exemplified the power of collective action in times of need.
As Larry embarks on his recovery journey, the community stands as a beacon of hope, providing the love, prayers, and resources necessary to help him overcome the challenges. The story of Larry Hayes serves as a reminder that together, a community can rise above any tragedy and bring light to even the darkest of times.
Please click here to support Larry’s Gofundme page
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