Rally for Simon’s Recovery: A New Battle

Story

Anyone who knows Simon will tell you there’s always more going on behind that calm, unbothered exterior. A fiercely private (read: stubborn) but hilariously sharp Welshman, he’s somehow become the accidental therapist for just about everyone around him—despite openly declaring himself the least qualified person for the job. Classic Simon.

But a couple of weeks ago, the jokes stopped. Out of nowhere, Simon was struck by a sudden and critical intestinal illness that landed him in the ICU. Nine days on life support. Doctors preparing us for the worst.

A healthy athlete—yes, that Simon, the Ironman and stage 4 cancer survivor—once again staring down a medical mountain no one saw coming. Honestly, it’s like the universe said, “Oh, you beat cancer? Let’s see what else you’ve got.” Well, in true Simon fashion, he’s not going down without a sarcastic comment and a fight.

After 12 intense days, he’s now been moved out of ICU and into a Progressive Care Unit, where he’s slowly beginning the long climb back: learning to eat again, rebuild strength, and eventually move unassisted. It’s a journey that will take time, grit, and (you guessed it) money.

Opinions seem to change with the wind, but it’s very likely that Simon won’t be going home anytime soon. His next stop may be a specialized rehabilitation facility—essential for his recovery, but not something insurance fully covers. The costs are piling up: hospital co-pays, deductibles, surprise bills (thanks, American healthcare), and now the possibility of extended rehab care.

If you know Simon, you know he’s not one to ask for help. So we’re doing it for him.

Any support you can give will go directly toward his recovery and the mountain of medical expenses ahead.

Let’s help Simon get back to doing what he does best: surviving the impossible—and making us laugh while doing it.

Organizers :

Trish Dowhan is organizing this fundraiser.