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Zack is a typical 15 year old teenager living in So. California. He enjoys hanging with his friends, playing on-line video games, dirt-biking in the desert, camping at the Colorado River, watching movies, texting his friends, and going to the beach. Zack has also taken boxing lessons and was on his high school wrestling team.
On May 31, 2010, Memorial Day, Zack Collie sustained a life-changing injury. While bodysurfing at Newport Beach, CA, he broke his neck at the 4th vertebrae and damaged his spinal cord. He was immediately paralyzed, fully conscious, and floating face down in the surf. Fortunately for Zack, Travis, his friend was close, turned him over and got him to the beach, saving his life. He was rushed to Hoag Hospital and then transferred to CHOC in Orange, CA. After a six hour operation he remained at CHOC for two weeks. From there he was transported to Casa Colina Inpatient Rehab in Pomona, CA. He will be in Casa Colina Rehab for about six weeks where he is being taught life-skills to learn how to function with his disability. Presently he has some movement in his forearms and is paralyzed from the chest down.
When he is released from Casa Colina he will return home and enter an out-patient physical therapy program at Project Walk in Carlsbad, CA. (www.projectwalk.org). Project Walk developed and practices The Five Phases of Recovery: (The Dardzinski Method™), an intensive exercise-based recovery program designed to stimulate the nervous system. The method was created and continues to grow and adapt from years of experience working solely with spinal cord injuries. This is not a six month, one or two year program. It is a program dedicated to pushing you as hard as possible to recover as much as possible, however long it takes. This is the program that their clients have chosen who have made the most recovery.
Unfortunately, Project Walk is not covered by insurance. Because of this and other uninsured costs Zack’s family and friends have started a fundraising campaign through Help Hope Live. This nonprofit organization has worked for nearly 30 years with the organ/tissue community and in 2000, they expanded their mission to assist those who have sustained a catastrophic injury such as Zack’s. All donations made to Help Hope Live in Zack’s honor go directly to his injury-related expenses and are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. If the donation is made by check, 96 cents of every dollar goes to Zack’s uninsured expenses. If the donation is made by credit card, 93 cents of every dollar goes to his uninsured expenses. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated and will help Zack on his way to recovery.
The program at Project Walk consists of a 3 hour therapy session three days a week. Be part of Zack’s miracle at a donation level you feel comfortable with and know that you are making a difference
$50 will give him a half hour of therapy.
$100 will give him an hour of therapy.
$300 will give him a day of therapy.
$900 will give him a week of therapy.
$3600 will give him a month of therapy.
To make contributions by check:
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo section:
In honor of Zack Collie
Please mail to:
Help Hope Live
Two Radnor Corporate Center
100 Matsonford Road, Suite 100
Radnor, PA 19087
To make contributions by credit card:
Please call 800-642-8399 or click on the “Donate Now” box at the top of this page.
Be sure to also click on the “My Webpage” under “My Links” box in the upper left corner to follow Zack’s recovery progress and see his latest photos.
Thank you for your generous support and prayers for Zack. They are greatly appreciated.
The Collie Family
Zack's Most Recent Life Update: In Fall of 2022, Zack completed his Master's Degree. Zack obtained a Master's Degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Zack's next goal is to apply for his associate number. Once he gets his number he can start applying for jobs and work on getting his hours towards licensure. Zack's goal is to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. Zack has been enjoying his time off doing adaptive gaming, spending time with family and his girlfriend, and enjoying life.
Here are videos of Zack's journey and his recovery progress:
Zack, my son goes to your school. We want to wish you the best of luck and you are always in our prayers.
And to your mom, my heart aches for you. I pray that your prayers be answered.
Michelle Flores, Yorba linda
The donation from J. Rosales was a collection from all your supporters at Costco Wholesale-Burbank and Los Feliz locations. We wish you the best Zack!
Jeff Rosales and Jennifer Beyer
Zack: I've seen you briefly outside your home, I'm Bill Leonetti's ex-wife. I am praying every night for your comfort and strength. You are amazing and I am blessed to know you and your family. Continue being strong and keep a positive attitude. MIRACLES do happen!
Susan Leonetti
Dear Zack, you don't know us, but we know of your story through our neighbors the Cornelius family and from reading in the newspaper. We are praying for you and your family and are happy we can contribute toward your therapy. We are also looking forward to the dinner fundraiser in Sept. God bless you!
The Harms Family, Yorba Linda
My daughter Geri and Zack's aunt Denise Collie are very good friends. After my husband passed away in 2007, Frannie Collie and her church blessed me with a donation. It is my honor to contribute to Zack's rehabilitation. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless.
Sherrald McMurray, Marin County
Just a guy who read your story in the Register and invested in an hour of your rehab and life. Someday you'll pay me back by paying it forward to someone else. But then again, you have already done that. Stay strong!!Wish I could do more.
Just Another Guy
Zack,
You and I haven't met before but we've spoken before on the phone. I'm a customer of your dad's, and you answered the phone once when I called while he was driving and couldn't talk on the cell phone. Although you don't know me, I want you to know that I am one of among MANY people who are avidly following your progress -- and your smiling face, your determination, and your overall positive attitude are not only going to get you through this, but are an inspiration to absolutely everyone. You are one special person, Zack -- and the world knows it. I wish you continued enthusiasm, drive and positive thinking, and look forward to meeting you. May you continue to show improvement, and to maintain the determination to never, ever give up the fight.
Barbara Kotsos, Long Beach
Hey Zach..you don't know me, but I am praying for you and your incredible family.I had Kaden in my Room 4 at preschool.With him nearby, I can feel the love. God Bless the Collie family!
Pam Van Kurin Yorba Linda
Zack,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We have been following your journey, and know that God will give you the strength to progress through your recovery. It is so wonderful to see pictures of you - the "only Zac's" smile, and the twinkle in your eyes. Blessings to you and your family.
Barry & Kay (Luc D's grandparents)
We're pulling for you, Zach, and praying for your recovery. As you know, you'll be faced with a lot of hard work in your therapy, but your bright smile shown in your hospital photo indicates you're not one to give up when faced with a tough job. I know you'll make it!
Faye Mullins - Yorba Linda
Hi, Zack
I read today's newspaper article concerning your need for physical therapy. I'm praying for your recovery and strength.
Marie, Laguna Hills
Hi Zack - just some words of encouragement from the Tajudin family! We think of you every day and hope you continue to work hard! Hopefully someone has snuck some good (In-n-Out?!) food in for you by now! All our best!
Amat, Mary, Michael and Ally
Dear Zack, We heard of you incident from Amat Tajudin and send our very best to you. We have faith that you will continue strong in your recovery. We're sending positive vibes to you!
Stacy & Sandro Chiavaro, Los Angeles
Zach I feel like I know you from your grandparents Christmas letters. I've known them for quite a while now and know them to be strong Christian Believers. I have bodysurfed many times at The Wedge and have know of a few that have suffered injuries such as yours. Know that my wife and I will pray fervently for a COMPLETE RECOVERY for you. Persevere thru this journey in your life while TRUSTING GOD each step of the way.
Ron and Lisa Gonser
Dear Zack,
We heard about your accident and injuries from our best friends, the Tajudins. Your grandfather knows them well. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We hope you get the support you need to continue your therapy. It sounds very promising.
Jim, Susan, Katie, and Julie McLoughlin
Susan and Jim McLoughlin
HI Zack, you don't know me but I am related to Mary Tajudin- a friend of your grandfather. Just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and you are in my prayers- along with so many other people who are praying for you. You are young and strong and I bet you will respond so well to the therapy. My best to you...
Nancy Fetterling Yorba Linda CA
Hi Zack - we are thinking about you today and everyday! Keep up the hard work - we will continue to send our prayers for your recovery.....
The Tajudin Family
HI ZACK, DANIEL RUPPE IS MY GRANDSON AND THAT'S HOW I FIRST HEARD ABOUT YOUR ACCIDENT. JUST KNOW THAT WITH US ALL HOLDING YOU UP BEFORE JESUS...ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN!
CAROL WIMBER
Hi Zack,
My name is Debbie Strader and Donnie & I are friends of Melis & Kyle..We are praying for the best outcome for you and will continue to support you,
Donnie & Debbie Strader
Hi Zach,
Keep up the good work, hang on to your FAITH in God & the love & support of family & friends.
Many people are lifting you & your family in prayer.
Love & Prayers!
Keep Hope Alive!
Sheila
Make checks payable to:
Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Zack Collie
Mail to:
Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
Donor preference is important to us. Please specify in writing if you wish for your name or donation amount to be kept private.
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