Mark Matthews Launches Online Fundraiser

Dec 12, 2014
by Mark Matthews  
Welcome to my online fundraiser!

After my crash at Red Bull Rampage 2013 I experienced complications with my insurance and was denied coverage. It's been an ongoing battle for the past year, and the time has finally come where I need to reach out to the bike community for some support. I currently owe nearly $40,000 in medical bills. More details can be found on my website: www.markmatthews.ca

I am offering a variety of product provided by Knolly Bikes, iXS, Smith Optics, Chromag, SR Suntour, Dissent Labs, Spank, Camelbak, and more! Anyone who donates is eligible to receive something.

Knolly Bikes Announces Loyalty Program

Win a brand new Knolly Chilcotin Frame, in the size of your choice! (shock not included)


rux

SR Suntour RUX Downhill Fork


product for fundraiser

Get ready to shred the dirt jumps with this Chromag Bikes kit


product for fundraiser

iXS Sports keep you safe when unsafe things are happening.


product for fundraiser

A variety of gear from Smith Optics


Mark Matthews Launches Online Fundraiser

Compression wear from Dissent Labs


product for fundraiser

A nice selection of stuff from Camelbak


Pinkbike Advent Dec 8

Clothing packs from Pinkbike



Rules:

1. Make a donation by purchasing an entry under "Buy Now" at the bottom of this page or my website ($5 minimum).

2. Scroll to the bottom of the fundraiser page and drop me a message. You can also message me from my Pinkbike Account.

Enter your name, email address, and put "Markymath Fundraiser" as the subject. In the message, briefly describe why you want to win something. The best and/or funniest answers will be chosen!

This is open to anyone worldwide and the prizes will be shipped out to the winners. The winners will be announced in the new year and contacted before hand.

I would like to give an extra special thanks to my sponsors for the gear, and to Jer Buck for building the website. Good luck everyone and thanks for your support!


Paypal issue has been fixed, thanks for your generosity!


Mark Matthews Fundraiser


Author Info:
mmatthews avatar

Member since Jan 15, 2000
33 articles

255 Comments
  • 384 2
 Hey sponsors. If you split this bill up between you it would be a write off and not that much ( relatively speaking for a corporation) and you'd all look like rock stars to the rest of us because you stood behind an athlete who laid his ass on the line to make your gear look good. Just a thought...
That said I have no problem kicking down some $$'s to help a rider in need.
  • 59 0
 I agree with this 1000%. His sponsors would look classy if they matched the donations that Mark receives from his fundraiser. I hope Mark's sponsors have already provided financial support for his recovery.

The video a few months back of Mark describing his comeback was very inspirational. - www.pinkbike.com/news/ixs-mark-matthews-rebuilt-video-2014.html
  • 31 0
 For just these sponsors( Which Im sure is not all of them) it would only be $5,000 each to cover it all. Why do they need a fundraiser?
  • 24 1
 Quite a few of his sponsors did already pay for a lot of this, I believe the 40000 is only a fraction of what was originally owed. But kudos to everyone who will donate and to those who already have
  • 23 0
 Do the words RED and BULL sound very caring and sharing to you?... just asking.
  • 87 8
 ****BOYCOT RED BULL TILL THEY SORT THIS ****

They spend more on some silly paintjob for a car than this...


Red Bull Inc. are without shame to leave the athletes who keep them in the headlines/profit in this situation, I can't believe they don't organise blanket medical cover for all competitors as a matter of course. cheapskates!

dont buy their product till they give something back to those who put them where they are!

Wishing you a full and swift recovery Mark Salute
  • 3 0
 paypal link no worky for me ...
  • 41 1
 $40000 in medical care! Thank god for the NHS! I really think Red bull should be sorting this out seeing as these riders are risking there lives to promote their company/event!
  • 9 1
 Sad how these kids give their lives so that companies like redbull and Gopro can make millions, but when shit like this happens they are 100% alone, same story of the soldier who gets hurt during war... I don't understand how a contest so dangerous like rampage has no insurance coverage for the riders...
  • 45 17
 Sorry, but this is not about sponsors or health systems or whatever. This is about responsability and common sense. I can't believe that someone is doing a high risk sport without a proper health insurance. Moreover, it should be MANDATORY that these athletes take out an insurance covering any injuries anywhere in the world. Damnit, it should be more mandatory than wearing helmet.
  • 14 1
 @guataisi I dont know all the details, but it seems he did have insurance but for whatever reason there was a problem.
responsibility and common sense should be mandatory for Big Insurance Co. Ltd...
  • 9 6
 Who said he didnt have insurance?? You arent terribly familiar with healthcare in the US are ya bud?
  • 8 6
 Buy him a plane ticket to the UK, sorted (though not for long if David Cameron has his way).
  • 20 3
 Do you two understand the meaning of "proper insurance"? I'm not talking about insurance for ordinary people with a normal job. I'm talking about people who often risk their lives for money.
The problem is that this kind of insurance (a proper one) is really expensive, and most athetles cannot afford it, and most sponsors are not willing to pay it either.
This point would probably have to be regulated at international level by UCI. And of course, the one who doesn't have the proper insurance must not compete. It seems quite logical to me.
  • 9 2
 By the way I have nothing against Mark, I hope he recovers asap and gets the money to pay the bills. But I think this might be a good excuse to start changing things. And things will change only if pro and semipro riders begin to take action, because sponsors are not going to move.
  • 7 10
 @guataisi , you know nothing about his insurance, so don't speak about it. It seems he paid for insurance that he though will cover his possible expenses being at Rampage contest, but they found a way to avoid that payment. That happens when insurance company is not doing correct things and now people in Canada know which company to avoid in future. But sometimes you learn that in the hard way. What really surprised me is that RedBull as an organizer didn't provide any insurance for the competitors and they have to pay even for the helicopter transport to the hospital. That's a real shame for such a big company organizing such a big events.
  • 14 0
 All of a sudden this place is full of insurance brokers...
  • 8 0
 PayPal Issue Fixed!
  • 4 1
 Its not red bull man. Red bull makes these events, its the riders own will if they want to do these events. Its like signing a release form for a bike park, its not the parks fault if you fall and break something. But just the ammount of Net Income that red bull gets, they could atleast spot Mark a few grand.
  • 5 1
 I don't actually see Red Bull, or any one of Mark's sponsors, as the "bad guy"here.
Even though they are pretty cheap ( I can say with experience and perhaps the film crew did get more $$'s but that's sad as generally crews shooting for RB get paid well below the going industry rate) you can't hold RB responsible for paying his bills as the title sponsor at an event. He's not one of their athletes.

RB does amazing stuff to promote and legitimize the actions sports we all love. Rampage alone has brought MTB to the attention of the masses which I think is a great thing.

I just thought it would be cool for his personal sponsors to help him out as he's clearly in a bind due to unfortunate events.

Aside from that let also not let this discussion cloud the fact that Mark NEEDS $$'s so don't forget to kick in some money for him. Every bit helps and adds up.....
  • 3 2
 @mentalhead I see you know all about that, so speak please and enlighten me with your endless wisdom, because I was just speculating on the possibility that Mark has taken out an "inappropriate" insurance, somewhat highly probable, isn't it?

But in addition to speculate I also bring some points of interest. Don't you think the subject of insurance in extreme sports should be strongly regulated? Don't you think pro riders should demand mandatory insurance controls of UCI, as in the case of dopping tests?

Now, as it turns out, Redbull is responsible for all. that's not going to happen. Redbull is in this business.... guess what for? Yah, right...... just for making good money.
  • 6 1
 Red Bull isn't doing all of this for the sport, they are capitalizing off the sport. They aren't just doing it for the advertising of their drug, they are making a bulload of money from the events themselves, media rights... If they want to do something for the sport, they should get more organized on the insurance side of things. They should at least have procedures in place to make sure their riders are following the Insurance company's rules so they get their coverge... at the very least.
  • 4 3
 @guataisi, I don't know nothing about it as well besides what's posted here and I'm not saying anything about it. You are the one who is making some conclusions without having enough information to do so.
  • 5 0
 @mentalhead stop talking, you just sound worse and worse as you continue. @guataisi has an extremely valid point, proper insurance should be mandatory. So in the event of something like this happens the athlete is covered no matter what and we never have to see an issue like this again.
  • 5 0
 I'm gonna step up here and say that I'm not surprised the insurance company wouldn't pay out. Put it this way; insurance companies make a profit by covering you for the low chance that you might have an accident. The more likely you are to be injured, the more you have to pay for cover. If there's a 100% chance you're gonna be injured, you pay for your own damn cover. If you build your own lines (which the riders at Rampage do) which are not certified as safe to ride (which an insurer would want to demonstrate a level of safety in what you are doing), and then you take suicidal risks at attempting these lines (how can you argue that these lines aren't suicidal?); it surely can't be an 'accident' when the risk of massive injury is so high. I think the insurer would be mighty pissed off that their client took such high risk under their cover and just drew a big 'f*ck-off' line.
Ownership should be taken by Red Bull as the company who is directly profiting by allowing riders to take such high risks under its own banner. They should be the ones to provide cover when no insurer can be reasonably expected to pay out.
(edit - Mark, thankyou for doing what you do to keep us meer sofa-warriors entertained. Someone, either your sponsors or the event organisers should sort you out for the lengths you go to to promote their brands. Maybe us too)
  • 3 1
 I don´t know exactly how sport accident insurance in Canada works, but in Spain every sport is grouped in federations, and they are in charge of taking out collective policies, thus costs are much shorter.
Strangely enough, MTBiking insurance are managed through the Spanish Climbing and Mountain Federation, along with insurance for climbling, ski mountaneering or hiking.
Although I have to pay a small extra amount of money for my biking insurance in practice, with this system, hikers (the least risky activity by far) are paying my crazy things on my bike or on the wall. But, on the other hand, I'm also paying the crazy things of expeditions to the Himalayas (the most risky activity by far).
  • 3 1
 It's fucked up cause Red Bull only support these events to promote the brand and the rider basically are key to making an event like Rampage. I feel strongly about this cause I know a guy who got hurt at one of their events and got permanent brain damage. Pay up you cheap fucks.
  • 1 0
 I kind of agree with you. He defenitly needs good insurance. A lot of companies will cover it unless you get injured in competition but there are companys out there that do cover it
  • 1 1
 This is a FMB SANCTIONED event. It is part of the FMB world tour. No one seems to be pointing the finger at them? Why go after the sponsors when it should be part of the "professional" sanctioning body's duty of care?
  • 1 0
 True, FMB should be held accountable as well. I think it's completely ridiculous that the Insurance company was able to avoid payment because Mark failed to inform them before going into surgery. How are the organizers not making sure these basic steps are taking place? I still think that the RedBull crew are the organizers of this event, not FMB.
  • 1 0
 @guataisi
The Internet has enough smartass nerds who insult the people who take risks with their know-it-all attitude.
  • 1 0
 Keep in mind he didnt ride for knolly at the time of his injury but it would be awesome if they did something (:
  • 136 13
 Why the hell is Red Bull not stepping in? They want athletes to risk their lives to promote their sugar drinks, and then hang them out to dry when things go sideways? I call bullshit. From now on I am going to boycott Red Bull until they set this straight. I urge you all join me.
  • 53 6
 He probably signed a waiver for the competition saying redbull is not liable for any injury etc etc. I'm not for redbull or against mark matthews but Redbull doesn't force riders to compete in Rampage.
  • 12 10
 Yeah it's likely down to a waiver. You can't really blame Red Bull because he did know the risks and stuff, I mean RB didn't force him to enter or anything, Mark seems a really sick guy and I've spoken to him a few times on Instagram and whatnot so I hope he's back on his bike soon. No offence man but say maybe a few hundred or even a few thousand people boycott Red Bull because of this they're still not going to notice anything because they probably make that much money from selling their drinks to kids that they can just make up all that lost money. Just my opinion and I hope Mark is back on his bike soon. Really shit thing that he probably won't have a part in Alchemy 2 because of this...
  • 19 0
 It is an issue with Redbull, they know the deal. They make enough off the event they sponsor to get the insurance for the participants- they just choose not to
  • 17 2
 Another thought- the riders have the power here. Red Bull needs them more then they need Red Bull. All they have to say is insure us or we don't ride collectively.
  • 9 2
 yeah, cause the riders can afford to miss an event.
  • 12 2
 maybe they should form a union
  • 35 3
 Last year the Red Bull brand was valued at $7.5 BILLION. How much exposure did they get from rampage? Tonnes. How much money did they pay the riders? Not Much. Think about it this way they paid the f*cking film crew 10 times as much as the riders! I don't give a shit if they made everybody sign a waiver, that doesn't mean they don't have a responsibility to the people who risk their lives for the advertisement. This years course was f*cking meat grinder, and I'm actually shocked that nobody died this time. Making the riders sign a waiver and not covering their medical bills is a chickenshit move. f*ck you Red Bull.
  • 11 19
flag motion (Dec 12, 2014 at 22:30) (Below Threshold)
 PS Chris and Kieran, you guys are idiots.
  • 7 2
 You guys are all right, it wouldn't be much for sponsors to pay all of this off. Yet being a sponsored athlete means being responsible for the risks involved. Sponsors are also not insurance, imagine the precedent that would be set if sponsors openly paid for their athletes medical bills? Yeah I agree, it would be great and good PR, but could all these companies afford to help cover all their athletes medical bills. I don't think so.

At least with these sports where this discussion can come about, the community involved in these sports are able to help out and get people through!
  • 13 1
 I'm not familiar with the insurance system in the US but why would you participate in an event like Rampage when you don't even have a good insurance? All the best to Mark Matthews and the fundraiser is a great idea but in the end the rider is responsible for his own insurance.....
  • 1 0
 think the recent Clif incident with climbers comes into light, if you people are gonna do this they just wouldn't sponsor them, they also budget years in advance as for paying film crew 10 times as much, some of them probably have mortgages on the camera equipment . . .
  • 6 2
 boycotting Red Bull by refusing to buy their energy drinks would make no difference to their profit

the vast bulk of their profits now comes from "Red Bull Media House", the drinks business is a small sideline in comparison Wink
  • 3 3
 Riders should come together on this one, and not ride rampage till they sort this out... How the hell an event so dangerous has no insurance for the guys that put their lives on the line? They do spend money and time making the ramps harder each year though!
  • 5 5
 If they don't fix this we all should wear a shirt with a slogan saying "redbull brakes your wings" and post it on the web all over the world.. I'm in!
  • 4 1
 Yeah boycotting redbull is a good idea...

You do realise the drinks are just a tiny bit of how redbull make their billions right ?
  • 3 0
 In reality, contracts and waivers are only as good as the attorneys who defend them in court.
  • 3 1
 www.forbes.com/sites/forbesasia/2013/06/24/the-wind-behind-red-bulls-wings

In the 30 seconds it just took you to read this red bull sharted out $40,000. Yes I'm sure they make athletes sign a waiver but they should provide healthcare to the athletes that compete in these events.

Boo...
  • 17 6
 What is wrong with some of you goons? It is not Red Bulls fault, that someone is injured.
Red Bull isn't an athlete's mommy and it has absolutely no obligation at all in paying for the medical bills of it's competitors, except maybe for its own "RedBull athletes".
Red Bull offers athletes the unmatched opportunity to compete on the highest level, while having the best media coverage and marketing machinery there is - and therefore providing the athletes a reach they could never ever achieve without them.
This means athletes can attract new sponsors and achieve bigger publicity, which again means they can earn a better living.
This is what Red Bull is about, and like someone said before, the athletes take their chances at their own risk and expenses.
Nobody asks the UCI to pay for injured Racers. Nobody asks the Formula1 to pay for injured Racers. Nobody asks the A.S.O. to pay for the dead and injured Racers of Rally Dakar. But EVERYBODY asks Red Bull to pay for everything?
Use your brains, folks! You should be thankful for what Red Bull has to offer.
The only thing Red Bull is responsible for is that the athletes are provided with on the spot health care and I guess they did their homework in that respect.

Btw I am in no way affiliated with Red Bull.
  • 3 0
 @mazze I agree with you in that they are providing fantastic exposure to athletes who may otherwise never be heard of.

But let's be clear, there is a HUGE difference however between a governing body (UCI) and Red Bull (for profit company hosting events to promote the brand). These events are commercials for the brand. As such, they should be able to provide continuing coverage for the athletes who are injured "acting" in the commercials.
  • 2 1
 Fair enough, I don't know about the UCI but I'm pretty sure the formula1 and A.S.O. are for profit organizations, too. Formula1 is a multibillion dollar business for mr. ecclestone.
Also, I was not saying that it wasn't eligible for red bull to support injured athletes, but my point was that everybody seemed to think that it was red bull's responsibility to do so which it is obviously not. Therefore I simply don't agree with all the boycott bullshit, even though i never drink that stuff anyway.

In the end it is still occupational hazard for the athletes and therefore they, or rather their management if present, are/is responsible for adaequate insurance.
  • 4 1
 Sry no edit function on my mobile.. I'd like to add one thing:

What people seem to forget is, that there actually is a bad guy in this particular case... it's just not red bull, but the actual insurance company itself that refused to pay for what it was meant to pay. This makes me wonder why the majority of people on here is to blame red bull. It doesn't make sense.
  • 2 1
 Agreed. Red Bull shouldn't be taking the brunt of the 'blame' here... Judging by what Mark has explained to us, it seems the insurance company did him over. US healthcare system didn't really help the matter either... Best of luck to you Mark.
  • 2 0
 I would add from my experience as a former professional free rider, I made 100% sure my private insurance covered me for downhill and freeride including competitions.

I paid an additional premium to make this covered all of my potential situations, both for immediate medical (which the NHS here in the UK generally covers, but for overseas evacuation) and more importantly for long term disabilities like spinal injury, including loss of earnings.

I would advise any rider to look at their cover properly, and if unsure, employ a legal advisor for a few hours to make sure its 100% watertight. Its too late once injured...
  • 1 0
 So is it that he needs money for additional treatment, or just to pay his bill? If it is just to pay his bill, what would the impact be if he didn't pay?
  • 1 0
 O.k., looked at his site, and see that the insurance company didn't pay because he had surgery before contacting the insurance company. Pretty fucked up, but still not sure what the consequences of not paying are. I wish him well.
  • 2 1
 I can't believe people are defending Red bull!!! They get millions from these events and people are saying they shouldn't have to sort it out! I'd agree if the prize money was half decent but its shite! And I used to complain about the NHS in the uk...
  • 4 2
 Aww yeah lets boycott Red Bull then! Show them us mountain bikers have had enough of their shite!

Then stand there helplessly as they remove themselves from the MTB industry. Remove sponsorship for athletes, remove funding for film projects, remove live coverage of world cup events, funding for events, prize money...etc.

Millions from these events? Don't you realise how small the MTB industry is?
  • 2 0
 @Iain-mac1 your last comment highlights why Red Bull already has too big a role in MTB. The sport shouldn't be dependent on any one sponsor and we shouldn't have to be grateful to them for what they've "done for us".

They haven't done anything for fans of the sport, they've backed athletes and events that can generate good advertising for their brand. It's just a coincidence that this sometimes benefits us as fans. They're not doing it for us, and when it doesn't make financial sense for them to be involved they'll take off anyway.
  • 3 3
 @iainmac-1 Right, because MTB depends of redbull to survive, provably the stupidest comment to date.. That's why companies like redbull does as they please without regulations, cuz of fools like you. Redbull events are great and all, but to say that MTB depends of it, please...
  • 3 0
 iainmac-1 I was riding and enjoying mountain biking long before Red Bull put their money in it and I'll be still riding, watching movies and enjoying the sport long after they're gone.
  • 3 2
 Sorry perhaps I wasn't clear. I have nowhere said that the mtb industry depends on Red Bull @tjet just listed things that we seem to take for granted that they provide us, and that we would miss if it ceased to exist.
  • 3 1
 @mazze
sorry mate - it is not the insurance company that is the bad guy. the normal sports insurance is not what should be used for extreme sport events. there are special insurances (even local races) and those are the ones who should cover events like that. the "normal" sports woman/man could otherwise not afford one of thos insuraces.

for red bull it would not be out of the ordinary to set up a fund where injured riders from those events could get money. with the wings for life fund they clearly show that they care about health, but it should be possible for a company that big to provide treatment for injured riders.

have a look at "20 seconds of joy" featuring Karina Hollekim - red bull does care about athletes, but that filmed example should not be the only one.
  • 2 1
 You must be kidding.
Yes, the insurance company is at fault here as also stated by M. matthews himself. Just read it. The insurance company evaluetes every client rigorously beforehand and they decided to gladly take his money, but at the same time they refused to come up for costs they were paid to cover in case of injury. I can't believe we are even arguing about this, it's SO obvious. If they didn't agree with his job or the risks he was taking, they are not to take his money in the first place - it's as simple as that.
Claiming the reason for them to not pay was that he didn't inform them before surgery is the cheapest trick, ever. How the f#ck is he going to call the insurance company if he knocked himself out in a hard crash?

Besides, as you already stated yourself, Red Bull seems to care about its own athletes. You obviously still fail to realize that M.M. is not a Red Bull athlete, whereas Karina Hollekim has Red Bull all-over herself.
  • 1 0
 This is a FMB SANCTIONED event. It is part of the FMB world tour. No one seems to be pointing the finger at them? Why go after the sponsors when it should be part of the "professional" sanctioning body's duty of care?
  • 72 2
 40.000$ in medical bills... wtf is going on with the US healthcare system!?
I think we have to help a brother out here!
  • 6 5
 Many US health insurance policies have a "No competition injury" clause. particularly corporate supplied insurance.

Just a thought. talk to an actual insurance agent obviously...
  • 2 1
 Is Mark Matthews Canadian or American?
  • 30 12
 It doesn't matter what nationality you are. If you get hurt in the US, you have to follow by the US' health system. There's insurance for traveling and competing but nothing amazing yet for action sports. The insurance is provided by sponsors for only their most important athletes... in short, the US healthcare system is a complete scam and you have Nixon and the Republican party to thank for that.
  • 3 0
 So true, tadgercat. There are few companies, however, that do provide insurance for athletes in competition or not, no matter how extreme. This is one: www.xsinow.com
Most only kick in after your primary insurance is exhausted or in this case not utilized at all. Something to consider.

All the best in your fund raiser. I'm in.
  • 6 2
 Plus, those of us who don't want to pay out the $375 each month for insurance, knowing that the fist $5000 on top of that is the deductible, will also be billed by the government to the tune of $400 in taxes for NOT paying into the system. America really sucks for some things.

His sponsors could really help out here in my opinion. Let's help a brother out.
  • 16 41
flag hamncheez (Dec 12, 2014 at 17:39) (Below Threshold)
 "Republican Party"

Obamacare passed without a single republican vote. Democrats could have passed a bill declaring war on Imaginationland and it would have passed.

The healthcare industry is the 2nd most socialized industry in the USA.

And on that note, I donated. No one has the right to post anything on this article without donating first.
  • 19 6
 Bla bla bla politics, lets get back to wishing Mark a swift recovery please.
  • 1 17
flag scary1 (Dec 12, 2014 at 19:52) (Below Threshold)
 You're retarded and you don't know wtf you're spewing. I don't think that is covered under US insurance, either.
  • 2 18
flag scary1 (Dec 12, 2014 at 19:55) (Below Threshold)
 Thankyou. These idiots are brainwashed and have never looked at a news sight in their life, but you get negged for knowing something.
  • 4 20
flag scary1 (Dec 12, 2014 at 19:59) (Below Threshold)
 Also...its really awesome how PB hasn't figured out a system yet to be able to show what comments you're actually responding to so nothing makes any sense.
  • 20 0
 Broken collarbone: 2 X-rays, 1 sling = $2000

Welcome to the US
  • 9 3
 @scott townes...I think Obama's guy Gruber, (mit prof., obamacare law architect) kinda told us recently what's really going on...yikes!
You went all political on a good will fundraiser.
Read your contracts all. Get well MM and good luck.
  • 3 9
flag EastCoastDHer (Dec 12, 2014 at 21:03) (Below Threshold)
 Oh....so Obama care is named after our republican president. ...
  • 6 9
 @maroni broken collar bone, 1 xray, 1 surgery with steel plate = $5 out the door

Welcome to the US
  • 6 14
flag MX298 (Dec 13, 2014 at 0:48) (Below Threshold)
 So the U.S. government (being me) is suppose to pay to fix someone who is taking huge risks and may not have ever paid any U.S. taxes ? If Canada's system is so good why do they cross the border to get their hip and knees fixed in the US?
  • 18 2
 This would never have been an issue in Europe. We pay for our healthcare through general taxation. Yes my taxes have covered someone else's medical bills but when I needed medical care I didn't have to think about expenses.

@maroni & ustemuf: 11 broken bones, complete AC separation, collapsed lung, 6 days in hospital with around the clock care, one surgical procedure, countless x-rays a CT scans and numerous visits with medical consultants = €450. Ever considered moving to Europe?
  • 10 1
 Ah so that's why the U.S. hasn't produced a decent downhiller (pre Gwinn era) in years, because no one cane afford to take enough risk should they get hurt. Thankfully us Brits can be like "fk it the NHS has got my back"

In all seriousness, I simply can't believe this event is allowed to take place without the riders having adequate insurance. I'm know I'm the not the only one at watches this years event thinking 'someone is going to die doing this one day' and then what? Redbull and the event organisers, personally owe it to the athletes and their families to make sure they're covered.
  • 3 1
 @Kamba6 Fair point. Funny thing: I am actually European and moved out here for the riding. But Europe's healthcare system (and I think Canada's works the same way) is without a doubt the best way to handle healthcare. Whats going on here is just ridiculous.
  • 7 1
 graeme187 - I bet that's a huge reason why. I know more than a few people who had to stop doing what they love (or to stop performing at their highest ability) due to a single or two trips to the hospital.

mx298 - Some Canadians come to the US for things like knee surgery because they're wealthy or have coverage in the US and would rather have it done here than waiting months to have it done for free in Canada. Personally, Id rather wait 5 months to get my ACL fixed for free, rather than have it done next week and spend the next 3-5 years paying it off. It has nothing to do with quality of care.

jrocksdh - I never made any comment towards the AHA so why you're jumping onto that, I have no idea. Regardless, it is a fact that it was Nixon and the Republican party that instituted the privatized healthcare system we see today.There's even tape of Nixon in the White House discussing the system with his cronies and they're laughing about how filthy rich its going to make them and their buddies.

Regardless of what party you associate yourself with, that's an undeniable fact that I felt needed to be stated since its directly the reason why this and other fundraisers have to take place. Oh and fun fact, if you do get a massive bill from the hospital, keep in touch and be honest about your situation and how you cannot pay them back. They will negotiate with you and will lower your bill. Hospitals would rather get some money from you than nothing at all.

Whew, spent way too much time on that. Good luck Mark and to everyone who donated. That is an insane amount of prizes they're giving away.
  • 3 3
 Nixon: "All the incentives are towards less medical care, the less care they give them the more money they make"

There's a reason the Republicans have been fighting tooth and nail to stop health care reform. All they care about is keeping the cash cow system they set up.

Straight from the horse's mouth: www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QkgUkM0o6Q

above quote starts @1:18
  • 4 1
 it's not actually called "Obamacare."
  • 2 0
 So true. I wonder if GAP insurance is common knowledge. If admitted to the hospital, your deductible is met by the Gap plan, leaving you with no bill. It's $50-$75 a month and I supply all of my employees with it. Might be a good idea for riders to have this.
  • 3 0
 separated shoulder in whistler. i got x-rays and sling at the clinic. I was US resident at the time, so had to pay out of pocket. cost? $187. oh, and i got a prescription for percocets then and there! best part was my friends dumping me there the going back to ride, at my insistence. the medical staff weren't too stoked about that actually...
not to get political, but aspects of the canadian system suck too. mainly insanely long wait times, even to get a family doc now. 6 months in some places.
  • 7 1
 European healthcare system works great for europeans because you guys are for the most part reasonable and intelligent, we americans are simply stupid. its true, we're too greedy to understand that helping everyone helps everyone including us. i want to move.
  • 2 0
 The USA has socialized medicine, 100%- as long as you're over 65, called medicare. It is also trillions and trillions and trillions of dollars in debt, horribly run, and full of corruption, as any monopoly would be. A monopoly on a service is never going to benefit the consumer, it will only work to the benefit of a concentrated interest.
  • 1 0
 They do but that's a retarded plan to have if you'r mark. As well, I am under the impression that you do not have to speak to your insurance company first if it is an emergency. That is fairly standard.
  • 60 0
 People slag it off, but the British nhs system has saved me from bills like that on numerous occasions!! Yes a state healthcare system may have its faults, but if it saves you from bankruptcy like our poor fellow rider is experiencing, they get my vote.
  • 37 0
 Fun fact: Bankruptcy from medical costs is illegal in some countries. America? Nope.
  • 6 1
 @oldmanDan its not like we dont have the choice to go private either at a much more reasonable cost. US medical system is a disgrace
  • 44 3
 You gotta be KIDDING ME!!!!
Red Bull didn't provide at least SECONDARY insurance for the competitors?!?!?!?
I've NEVER heard of this before!
This is/was a MULTI-MILLION $$, TELEVISED EVENT!!!!!
I road raced motorcycles for 12 years, and EVERY sanctioning body at LEAST provided secondary insurance.
I remember when the good 'ole state of Kalifornistan decided insurance carriers could deny injuries from hazardous activities, and magically after that, my injuries were from gardening(primarily) and falling down the stairs.
Still, I would think the promoter and sponsors would be on the hook in a BIG way here.
Someone could be high on crack and break into your house, and if they injure themselves in the process, they could still sue you.
Something is REALLY wrong here.
BTW, nice to see his multi-million-dollar sponsors pitching in what....MAX $1000 in product(which is tax deductible) each.
  • 1 0
 You read my mind. I had no primary insurance when I was racing a US National and blew my ACL. Secondary insurance from USA Cycling paid $12k of the $16k bill. I worked off th rest.
  • 1 0
 That's how Red Bull is getting around it. They aren't a sanctioning body- just a sponsor. RB could give two shits about the people at their events, otherwise they'd provide the insurance. They know the events they sponsor are so extreme than getting insurance as an individual would be difficult. They however could easily get event coverage for participants.
  • 1 0
 If Red Bull is acting as a Promoter, then they have legal liabilities, even if they have the participants sign waivers.
Waivers NEVER cancel out state/federal law(s). I imagine in this case, the participant isn't pursuing legal recourse simply because he knows any future dealing(s) with Red Bull(and probably ANY big-name sponsor) would be non-existent.
In any case, Red Bull AND his sponsors should be ashamed and embarrassed.
He's been reduced to asking for fricken DONATIONS over the internet, and DESPITE some of his sponsors being worth 10's and HUNDREDS of MILLIONS OF DOLLARS, not ONE of them stepped up for his $40k hospital bills.
Isn't this televised on NBC, and/or that NBC/Universal cable sports channel?
If so, he could also haul their ass(es) into court as well.
I wonder if they're aware that an athlete with which they USED to make(possibly) millions in advertising $$ off of(hour show x what...$50k/30-second spot? I have no fricken idea..) has needed to solicit donations from the public via the internet to pay for his medical bills for an injury incurred while PERFORMING in THEIR event?
  • 1 0
 I just sent Red Bull an email asking them about this, and next I'm going to find out who their television 'partner' is/was for 'Rampage', and ask them if they're not only aware of Red Bull hanging this guy out to dry, but also if they're aware of their OWN liability.
I might send emails to at least his big(ger) sponsors, and ask them how they sleep at night knowing they could've paid his bills without so much as putting a freaking DING in their advertising budget, but chose to 'SPONSOR' his solicitations of donations from the public instead.
The more I think about it, the more this pisses me off. They REAP the $$$ benefits of his risking his fricken life, but when that risk turns to reality, they choose to donate what amounts to SHIT from their advertising/marketing kitties, instead of doing the right thing and STEPPING UP and taking care of the $40k.
I've seen the same relative thing happen with MX riders who've been so injured, their medical bills totaled in excess of HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, and even into the MILLIONS. In THAT context I fully understand and support the effort.
But screwing this guy(and instead expecting the public to take care of THEIR responsibilities) for a relative MEASLEY $40k is unconscionable
I know I'm no longer gonna be supporting ANY of these so-called sponsors, nor Red Bull
  • 1 0
 You mis-read me. I'm not condoning either side. And suing an event promoter for something you CHOSE to do is insane.

These companies you refer to have way smaller budgets than you think and they did not force him to enter. It was his dream to ride Rampage and I'm sure he'd be the first to admit it was by his own choice he tried the trick that injured him for his own satisfaction.

Freeride isn't wealthy or powerful enough (except maybe in some after school TV show?) to exert enough pressure to force him into doing it.

He's a guy who got caught out by a loophole in an insurance policy. Suck it up fella. It's just a bad break and people are taking time out of their slaving schedules to help him however they can.
  • 1 0
 As far as 'suing the promoter', he absolutely has every right to, and I have to disagree. Red Bull, NBC, and a couple of his sponsors(didn't I see Oakley as one? I'm old and have CRS, so I could be wrong) have enough $$ to cover.
Additionally, having run a motorcycle road racing team out of my own freaking shop(I had a small single-franchise dealership), I sponsored several riders in addition to those on my 'team', and I can tell you flat-out, ANYBODY that sponsors athletes where there's risk of bodily injury (or worse), covers their ASS with insurance, but that's a moot point anyway.
The bottom line is this: This is/was a MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR event. It wasn't some minor 'free-ride festival' in some-dude's backyard. Red Bull and NBC made/make MONEY off of it, or they simply wouldn't be doing it.
And Red Bull aren't idiots. They know the position they put themselves in with this event, and regardless of WHO actually sanctions it, Red Bull is its face, therefore they're liable as all hell-AND THEY KNOW IT.
Knowing what I do about these types of events, I still believe they had AT LEAST secondary insurance, if for no other reason than the state/county/city where it took place, WOULDN'T HAVE ISSUED PERMITS, lest THEY be held liable.
THE SINGLE BIGGEST check-off item when running one of these events, IS INSURANCE to cover your freaking A$$.
Whether this dude somehow slid through the cracks or whatever, I don't know. Al I DO know is he's been reduced to seeking money from the fan base to cover his injuries, and I can't believe the sanctioning body and/or promoter(s) set up their participants for this to happen if/when they get injured.
Lastly, I also disagree with you're blaming the rider because HE made the effort that led to his injury.
You think Red Bull/NBC/His Sponsors would've been happier if he simply did a cross-up off the jump?
HELL NO!!
  • 37 5
 "$40,000 in medical bills...." . Chalk this one up to another epic win for the U.S. healthcare system. Sorry you got injured here and not in Canada.
  • 2 0
 Is the issue that he's Canadian and that his medical treatment in the United States is not covered?
  • 5 2
 the issue is he got hurt in the U.S. bruh, doesn't matter what you are hahaha, i cut my hand open while out at a reef in hawaii, had it cleaned up by the doc's because i didn't want it infected, probably cost the hospital 15 bucks or less and about 5 minutes of that doctors time, they billed my insurance for like 5 grand hahaha.
  • 1 0
 I have a buddy that raced for the Kawasaki Canada Superbike team.
The good 'ole Canadian Socialized healthcare system might 'cover' everyone, but what good does it do when your Dr. appointment is set a YEAR later?
He'd get injured during a Sunday race, and his appointment (in Canada) JUST FOR THE MRI would be a year later.
Needless to say, he came down here for ALL his healthcare needs
  • 1 0
 @yokev: That sounds anecdotal. I'd need substantial evidence and analytics to prove this was the circumstance for the majority of those seeking a serious medical need.
  • 1 0
 I sure as heck wouldn't wanna find out for myself, but alas, I just have the experience(s) of ONE Canadian(now a fellow Kalifornistanian).
I would however, imagine that Owen's(my buddy) troubles would be mirrored by other Canadians who injure themselves on a [semi] regular basis, so if you know any, might be worth it to ask.
Mind you this was back in the '90s and early 2000's. We're both very old now.
  • 27 2
 And the moral of the story is that American healthcare is insanely expensive!
  • 19 0
 From his website: "I did purchase insurance beforehand. However, the company refused to cover me because I didn't notify them of my injury before I went into surgery, and they argued that my professional sport activities were too dangerous."

What... the... F?
  • 5 1
 That totally blows. F## RedBull and his insurance company. I'll donate.
  • 1 0
 Yep. Health Insurance.....truly one of the most unique corporate scams the world has ever encountered. Capitalism at its finest.
  • 1 0
 duffong-
Insurance companies were given the 'right' to refuse coverage to those who were injured while engaged in 'hazardous' activities(among other reasons) I wanna say back in the late-90's(at least here in Kalifornistan).
I road raced motorcycles at the time, and I shit you not, every time I was injured to the point of requiring medical treatment from then on, I was magically injured gardening, or climbing the stairs.
I wouldn't even ask your insurance co...If you don't require an ambulance picking you up at the scene, simply write on the form that you injured yourself while 'engaged' in some totally innocuous activity
  • 16 1
 Payment sent...red bull sucks ass
  • 15 1
 Shame on Redbull. All the athletes should be 100% covered.
  • 14 0
 FYI, $40k ain't sh*t for them.
  • 11 0
 Can't believe a bunch of broke dirtbags are paying the medical bills that multi million dollar corporations won't.

Sent some $. Good luck
  • 10 2
 ya , holy crap !!!! red bull, ixs, etc. etc. come on, what a joke " hey wear my stuff, ride my bike in psycho situations and when U crash and burn we will all turn our backs on U ' !!!! SO friggin sad with these big dollar companies !!! Frown
  • 11 2
 Paid. Just like red bull to know i will never buy another product from them. Shame on you red bull!
  • 6 1
 Hope Mark gets some support to cover the debt. BCAA has a great policy that covers "pro" athletes competing anywhere in the world. They have another policy that covers riding only. The upgrade is not much but sometimes not pointed out. Believe it is $285 a year and you have to cover all deductibles. There are also some incurred costs due to state policy if hurt in us. My sons 6 stitches with the insurance cost me $485 in Colorado. I believe an over night with doctors care and X-ray can go as high as 5-10000. We were covered for one of those with BCAA's policy. Moral of story is read the fine print. Heal up Mark and let's get the funds together for him!
  • 6 0
 That's currently the insurance I have now! I used TIC before and they were horrible. BCAA has been awesome and is less expensive!
  • 1 0
 You had BCAA's coverage and still are looking at a $40000 bill? Sorry to hear man. Hope we rally the funds to help a brother out
  • 2 0
 Nope BCAA is what I have now and I have nothing but good experience with them
  • 5 0
 Been there bro. $60k for a couple of ti screws to rebuild my ankle seven years ago. Still up to my balls in debt, dont care, i can ride. Insurance companies are effed. I will totally swing a few bucks your way. Heal up fast and well and get back to shredding!
  • 6 0
 I don't cate about the politics or responsibility when the bottom line is you need help. Take $50 and May it speed you in your way.
  • 4 0
 ok. l am going to donate and specifically request not to win anything. insurance companies SUCK. especially health insurance. health care is a right not a privilege. someday we will figure it out and will have universal health care for all. healing vibes to mark and merry christmas!
  • 5 0
 Done. Took a few tries to remember my PayPal password though. Insurance companies have usually taken good care of me. Sorry your's didn't pan out. I'd like some assurance coverage, as in We Assure Nothing Bad Will Happen!
  • 5 1
 And if you don't have PayPal working you can directly e-transfer money to me at markandrewmatthews@gmail.com Thanks for the support everyone!
  • 3 0
 Bam. Cash sent. A lot of us on the site live vicariously through a few adventurous souls while we toil away at our (soul crushing) jobs. Hope this gets you closer to riding. We're all counting on people like you to remind us of what we love.
  • 7 0
 Who was your insurance provider?
  • 4 0
 That's a good question. I guess the insurance company was fully aware of what his job was and the risks it implied. To avoid payment the way they did should be against the law.
  • 3 1
 Ya, who was the Insurance provider? We'll be sure never to use them !
  • 17 0
 TIC (Travel Insurance Canada)
Stay away! I recommend BCAA for pro athlete insurance. They are awesome.
  • 7 0
 Redbull net worth: 5.3 BILLION dollars, and can't even help a brother out.
  • 4 1
 Let's put our hands together for Red Bull for "giving him wings" in his hour of need. It's extraordinary to see that whole world is watching this epic event and when something bad happens they just don't give a shit.

I'm seriously thinking about NOT watching next RR Rampage.
  • 4 0
 If all of the sponsors just forked out 5k. It would be taken care of... and I also agree redbull should surely be insured and bonded to hold such an event...
  • 2 0
 Sent you a six pack worth,hope you get it sorted out.

To clarify somewhat BCAA/CAA is the Canadian version of American Automobile Association (AAA)
They are great and very can provide very reasonable coverage. Surprised they will cover Rampage level
Hucking, that is great!

The only bad thing a young feller should pick up stateside is cheap beer and the clap,both easy to get rid of! Smile
  • 2 0
 Sent some $.

FYI, Every sporting event in history and the future has/will be an "enter at your own risk" deal. You have a free-will choice to participate in dangerous activity. Yes, it would be nice if sponsors helped out, but medical bills are expensive and sponsors pay you to stay healthy, not be broken.
  • 2 0
 Paypal link not working, have tried a few times but no luck. Also fuck the American healthcare system, and a big thanks to the NHS for keeping me riding all these years, state healthcare systems are a wonderful thing for taxes to fund.
  • 2 0
 This isn't anything to do with large corporations or even the US medical system...... his insurer has refused cause he didn't notify them of the injury before he went into surgery..... not sure anyone in Marks position would be able to make that call........PAIN, PAIN AND MORE PAIN from multiple breaks to his femur...... they also say because his professional sporting activities are to dangerous........ what a cop out, they would have know before cover was issued what he was doing.
Mark entered Rampage of his own free will but was butt f##ked by an assh#le in an office.....

MY MONEY SENT

Ride fast n rock hard Mark....
  • 4 0
 Being a Swede this is almost to hard to believe. lame fucking healthcare system! will try to make a donation, hope it all get sorted out!
  • 2 0
 Last April I broke my Femur at Snow Summit, the bill for the ambulance to the hospital $1500, hospital bill in Big Bear $5000, Helicopter ride to Loma Linda hospital $28,000, bill at Loma Linda $70,000, surgeons bill $20,000, there were also a tune of smaller charges for miscellanies things such as ti rod and pins, x-ray and rehab.
I was lucky my Insurance paid most of my bill, I hope it all works out for Mark Matthews
  • 2 0
 ... And you guys thinking about boycotting Redbull , give your head a shake. They have so many events around the world in so many sports that if they started paying medical bills it would eat their billion dollar value pretty fucking quick. Not to mention MTB needs Redbull WWWAAAAAAYYYYYYY more than Redbull needs MTB. Sorry you got screwed by your insurer Mark and good luck with the fundraiser
  • 7 2
 Red Bull you change from "Red Bull gives you wings", to "Red Bull gives you Bills"
  • 2 0
 Spend 3 days in hospital this summer cause of bike related injury , had like 5 scans , X-Ray's and lot's of doctors checking me . Got the bill , 89 euro ! So i'll be donating cause in belgium we are well insured. Hope MM is back on his bike
  • 1 0
 Paypal doesnt seem to work
  • 1 0
 Fixed! Thanks
  • 3 0
 Hey, just wanted to help out in anyway I can. I know not doing what you love is the most difficult. Heal up and hope to see saddle time early time soon.
  • 4 0
 I love to help out a rider in need anytime. Regardless if I win a Knolly or not
  • 1 0
 Done! As someone that fought a yr to get surgery from an acknowledged on the job injury I feel for him. Nothing worse then an injury that threatens your livelyhood but on top of that to then deal with insurance and legal issues. Sure companies could flip the bill for this but remember that dollar amount is his medical bill, I'm sure he's not making money while laid up?
  • 1 0
 The pseudo raffle idea is cool but if we could buy the proposed kits at a discount and some of the profits would go to mark, I would have bought that Chromag Monk package, as I was looking at it on their website this week... Just a thought, I donated anyway as I can't imagine how much that would suck to be in his situation...
  • 2 0
 Your purchase couldn't be completed Error Message This recipient is currently unable to receive money. Your purchase couldn't be completed There's a problem with the merchant's PayPal account. Please try again later.
  • 1 0
 fixed now! Thanks
  • 2 0
 I can't pay right now. =/
"This recipient is currently unable to receive money. Your purchase couldn't be completed There's a problem with the merchant's PayPal account. Please try again later."

I will check later.
  • 1 0
 Same problem for me here...

Hopefully this problem be sorted out... then I could help you a "bit" with this @mmatthews !!
  • 4 0
 PayPal Issue Fixed! Thanks Everyone
  • 2 0
 Done. Smile
Good luck !
  • 4 0
 No medical insurance is rather stupids - we pay taxes here to insure us and keep us alive lol Well done to the NHS
  • 2 0
 Donated
Markbayrock@shaw.ca
Would love to win something because I have 2 kids now and I'm not allowed to buy myself anything anymore...

Hope you raise all you need.
Good luck!
  • 1 0
 I in it everybody to Search the truth behind Redbull in YouTube. I'm sure you have a surprise. So sad the athletes our heroes don't have a medical plan and ride and put in risk her life's without any consideration to the rich corporation. That's situation sucks.
  • 1 0
 I do genuinely feel bad for Mark that he has been left in this position for whatever reason however setting up a fundraiser to help him get our of debt if Im honest really infuriates me; he is an athlete going into something with known risks so should be prepared for whatever eventuality...As a pro athlete, why would he not have all relavant insurances in place?...

Sorry I cant help here....What about the 2 month old baby who needs a heart transplant but cant have it because the babies parents cant afford insurance or the medical bill? I know which one I would donate to...
  • 1 0
 There's so many problems with health insurance in the US that it's pretty much impossible to figure out a solution. There are too many parties whose main concern is not caring for the person who needs health care. Profitability is #1 and legal indemnification is #2 (no suing us). My wife was in the hospital with our twins for 7 weeks. The bill? Somewhere around $220k. We paid a $2,500 family deductible. The insurance company settled with the hospital and paid them somewhere around $25k. Her OBGYN once charged our insurance $700 for a 10 minute phone call with my wife. One of the biggest problems is that the hospitals over-charge, knowing that they will only get a fraction of the bill paid by the insurance company. When the injured party is left holding the bag, they can negotiate with the provider. I had a $1,600 ER bill where insurance only covered $400, leaving me witha $1200 bill. I negotiated with the hospital and wound up paying $800. I bet Mark's actual bill is closer to $60k or so, but after negotiating with the provider, he got it knocked down.
  • 5 4
 Bro, Rampage with no medical is irresponsible... I don't know the details but you gotta be 100%. Red Bull/Sponsors not stepping up is another questionable WTF. Hats off to the smaller companies for offering sweet product, respect and support.
  • 3 2
 Then you have to re-read what was written. He was covered but the insurance company decided not to cover his claim because he didn't notify them of his busted femur quick enough before surgery... yeah, welcome to America.
  • 1 0
 Shame on redbull and go pro. The foundation of their success lies in the marketing and association with "extreme sports" and the athletes involved. That stupid drink was nothing until it grew in the interests of people involved in sports like these, and those cameras were built completely around these sports and rec activities.
The fact that they host or support events without providing a blanket coverage for all athletes involved in the competition is despicable. No way, no f*cking way they should pass it off to personal responsibility considering how much money they make from the associations.
Drink tastes like piss anyway. Go have a coffee.
  • 1 0
 So glad I dont live in the USA with a medical system like that. Yes we pay a shit load of money in tax just around 50%. But you have free hospitals, free doctors, and a lot of other social benefits.
Hope you get the money raised.
  • 5 0
 Get Knolly bra!
  • 4 0
 Boom...money shot right in your bank acct.
  • 2 1
 same!
  • 3 1
 might as well.. chance to win some nice gear!
  • 6 0
 Same, plus chance to win some sweet gear, and then have a chance to sell it off when I get hurt to pay for medical expenses!
  • 5 0
 The circle of life...
  • 4 0
 done!! Happy to help a rider out prizes or not!!!
  • 1 0
 PayPal Issue Fixed!
  • 4 0
 Red bull gives you bills... Genius, we should use that.
  • 2 2
 I not want to give money but I will have to do. I'm surprise for the Red bull riders do not step forward against to this companys give you everything and then do not give anything. Estrange you are Luky you are walking againg Mtb gays on Red Bull just want to look the best for what ,possibly living by idiots around
  • 3 1
 Go home, you're drunk.
  • 3 0
 $$$$
$$$$
$$$$
$$$$
!
PAYPAL WHY DON'T you just take my money!!!!
!
$$$$
$$$$
$$$$
$$$$
!
Paypal link not working, sorry
  • 1 0
 I fixed the issue. Thanks!
  • 1 0
 Problem is that, they all have insurance, but INSURANCE dont pay if there is a cash prize in competition Frown

they interpreted it that $$$makes you do stupid things and thats mean risk is to height to pay for it.
  • 1 0
 Support Mark and help a fellow rider out but read this and help yourself out as well...it could be you anytime you ride?
www.pinkbike.com/news/risk-vs-reward-contest-insurance-2014.html
  • 2 0
 Done. If you tune into Red Bull TV for world cups and rampage, for free, just remember there would be nothing to watch if it wasn't for the riders.
  • 2 1
 Dude, I wouldn't win a fucking argument so I don't expect to win here. But anyone who breaks a femur on the Rampage must have rode it like a boss. Own that shit next time round!!!
  • 1 0
 This is why after breaking my wrist and busting up my head in Whistler, I immediately drove back to Seattle to get medical attention. I didn't even let them bring me into the clinic at Whistler.
  • 2 0
 This recipient is currently unable to receive money. Your purchase couldn't be completed

Seems to be some trouble with your paypal account?
  • 1 0
 Donated, I hope you get things sorted out. It's great to see fellow mtn bikers stepping up! It's sad to not see your corporate sponsors not taking this on........they may but you shouldn't needed to get to this point.
  • 2 0
 Just did Option three I think. Chance to win something at least. Beats Go Fund Me!
  • 4 1
 Just sent some money, but next time, make sure you're covered :p
  • 2 6
flag davidsimons (Dec 12, 2014 at 22:27) (Below Threshold)
 Agreed, I work for a living, and though I'd rather go ride my bike all day I don't because I have to earn, so that I can of my bills, taxes and insurances...Lessons in Life 101: responsibilities.
  • 7 0
 davidsimons: if you don't feel like donating that's fine nobody is forcing you to do so, likewise no one is asking for you "lessons in life 101" teachings. Pretty sure he is not interested in your "lessons" either.
  • 1 3
 Masterofstone : what's with that name? Anyway, I'm pretty sure I don't need your advice.And, just as your sure he is not interested in my comments I am equally not interested in yours. Oh, a!most forgot, who says I'm not interested in donating? Jeez, kids today, eh?
  • 1 0
 I would have no problem donating even if there weren't any prizes, I will do what I can to help another rider in such need
  • 2 0
 Glad to help anyway I can!
  • 1 0
 Hope this donation helps you, even if its ice cream after a long ride! Cheers, and KCCO!
  • 2 0
 I put some cash in your kitty bro. Make us proud.
  • 1 0
 Met with same thing, same situation.... and same wishes. Hope u'll be back for riding ASAP.
  • 2 0
 RIDER DOWN HELP ON THE WAY!!!
  • 1 0
 Donated. Let this be a lesson to us all, get the right insurance that covers what we do and read the small print.
  • 1 0
 Money does not but health? Tell me more about it...

Sad to hear this, hope everything will be sorted out!
  • 1 0
 Hey man - come to Canada and become Canadian - we got REAL HEALTHCARE and WHISTLER! Sorry about the cold times though!
  • 1 0
 Best of luck with the donations Mark!!
  • 1 0
 All he has to do is Bk out of it. People do it all the time.....
  • 1 0
 hope you can recover as soon as possible
  • 1 0
 I'll give you some love buddy!
  • 1 0
 Put the money down! Hope it all comes through :-)
  • 1 0
 Your pay-pal account has a problem buddy, I can't donate!
  • 1 0
 Fixed it! Thanks
  • 1 0
 That's a donation done bud, hopefully you will get sorted, and be out shredding with little worry soon.
  • 1 0
 Sent but won't let me message you
  • 1 0
 ok, fatto versamento da 10 usd. buona fortuna.
  • 1 0
 done, always happy to support a rider down
  • 1 0
 Just get well. No need to give something in return!
  • 1 0
 @mmathews how bout an update? do you have a total received so far ?
  • 2 0
 Done, sent some $$...
  • 1 0
 Yup, covers med bills too.

velosurance.com
  • 1 0
 Done, hope you get sorted soon.
  • 1 0
 pay now link isn't working. Says "merchant is unable to receive money".
  • 1 0
 Paypal is back and up and running. Thanks!
  • 1 0
 Thanks. Donation made!
  • 1 0
 $20 in yer account.

LET'S DO THIS PEOPLE!!!
  • 1 0
 Don't ride without Medical Insurance please.
  • 1 0
 Donated! Hope it helps!
  • 1 0
 Y u no fix paypal?
  • 1 0
 It is now fixed! Thanks
  • 1 0
 done. good luck
  • 1 0
 done.
  • 1 0
 Good luck brah!
  • 1 0
 Done..all the best dude
  • 1 3
 Seriously? What a joke.
Below threshold threads are hidden







Copyright © 2000 - 2024. Pinkbike.com. All rights reserved.
dv42 0.096955
Mobile Version of Website