After making it through some grueling surgeries in the ICU that very day, I began to comprehend the weight of what this accident had done to me. I had lost sensation from my shoulders down. Those first nights, and then weeks, were the most difficult I had ever borne. I was breathing from a ventilator and had cold metal bolts fastened to my spine. I could not eat or drink anything and had no control over anything but my own thoughts. I spent several weeks in the ICU and then was transferred to two different rehabilitation centers in Indy. After two of the longest months of my life I was finally able to come home, having conquered the ventilator but still unable to feel or move anything below my shoulders.

My enjoyment of physical activity has never diminished throughout my life. My accident occurred on one of my daily bike rides, an activity I had simply taken for granted as routine. Running, biking, swimming, I loved it all. Before the accident, I was working as a senior research scientist at Purdue University, conducting research in both chemical and aerospace engineering, something that I had devoted my days to. Even now, I am striving to be as involved as I can, continuing to input on the projects I was working on. On that day, much was taken from me. What I was left with, I realized, was more valuable then I could ever realize. I am in awe of how blessed I am to have the support of my family and a small army of friends and helpers. This is a road that I am afraid I might have to walk for the rest of my life, and I know now better than ever that I cannot do it alone. I have always tried to be self-sufficient in life, preferring to give to others before ever asking for help myself. However, the reality is that our financial expenses are tremendous, even with insurance and familial support.

I am itching to put my brain to work again and continue to advance the research I am a part of that can help others. This is a challenge not to taken lightly. It will require what feels like a never-ending stream of expenses such as therapy, medical supplies, electronic equipment, wheelchairs, and vehicle accommodations. If you are looking to offer help, donating to Help Hope Live will provide me with the support I need to conquer the towering challenges ahead of me. I thank each and everyone of you from the bottom of my heart, from one human being in need to another.

Thank you.
Linas Mockus

Family and friends of Linas Mockus are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Injury.

Linas has chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.

For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.

Thank you for your support!