T. Kenji Sugahara

Dear Friends,

On Monday June 11th Mat Barton suffered an accident during the
Portland Short Track single speed race that resulted in a serious
spinal cord injury which has left him paralyzed from the chest down.
We know many of you have been anxious for an update on his condition,
and we apologize for the wait. We're sure you all understand that he
and his family needed personal time and space after the accident
before information could be shared publicly. It has also taken some
time to get clarity on what Mats longer-term prognosis looks like.
Mat underwent surgery on Wednesday June 13th to stabilize his spinal
column, but unfortunately the doctors say the paralysis is likely
permanent.

Mat is one of us, a fellow bike racer and many of you know him as a
friend, and what a wonderful person he is. But this obviously is about
so much more than bike racing. Mat is a passionate and talented young
man, and loving husband, whose life and the life of his family has
just been changed forever by a freak occurrence. Mat's road to
recovery will be long and difficult, and now it is our turn to help
support him and his wife Jessica in their time of need.

The family, friends and co-workers of Mat have established a fund to
help offset to costs of his treatment and recovery. If you would like
to join us in contributing to this fund any amount would be greatly
appreciated. The link below will take you to Mat's donation page,
which also contains information on how to get updates on Mat's
progress. Your caring and support means the world to Mat and his
family.

www.bartonpdx.com

I've personally made a donation and urge you to do the same.

You can also stop by Western Bike Works in NW Portland (where Mat
works) to make a contribution as well. If other bike shops would like
to help raise funds please feel free to post this message and the
donation web address in your shops as well.