Well known and much loved in local boating circles, Rico was returning from a work meeting when he was forced off the road by an erratically driven taxi van.
The crash left him with an open femur fracture, broken ribs and deep lacerations. He was found alone in a roadside ditch and rushed to Vachira Hospital, where swift emergency treatment is credited with saving his life.
Now, friends are stepping up to help Rico through what promises to be a long and difficult recovery. Oliver Wilce, a close friend, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover Rico’s growing medical expenses.
“Rico is currently facing an uphill battle,” Wilce wrote on the fundraiser page. “With his savings already depleted after the first life-saving operation and no social security to fall back on as he’s between jobs, the medical bills are piling up at an alarming rate.”
The fundraiser is aiming to provide not only financial relief, but also hope and encouragement to a man who has long supported others in the local community.
“Every contribution brings Rico one step closer to getting back on his feet and returning to his passion for the sea,” Wilce added.
The fundraiser can be found at: GoFundMe - Help Rico Stapel Get Back on His Feet.
Rico has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and generosity being shown during what he describes as an extraordinarily difficult time.
Donations of any size are welcome.