As you most likely know, Mike Franklin was in a grizzly motorcycle accident about six months ago that left him in a coma with a shattered ankle, broken leg, shoulder, and neck. The doctor’s were 90-percent sure they’d have to amputate his leg, ending his skating career. In an incredible twist of fate, one of the doctors found out Mike was an amateur skater, implemented a decades’ old muscle flap procedure, and not only saved Mike’s leg, but made it possible for him to walk and skate very soon. We just caught up with Mike on the phone today to get the latest update on his health, his desire to return to the board, and an inspirational phone call from one John Cardiel. Check out some of Mike’s most recent footage before the accident, then read on.

Read full article at Transworld Skateboarding

ARF has been soo busy lately that I've hardly had time to catch my breath. Much less write an update. Good news is that we are still growing and we have continued to assist professionals in BMX, FMX and Skate on a steady basis. FUEL TV has been showing us tons of love over the past two months. ARF has been popping up on "Daily Habit" and "Weekly Update" on the regular. Visit our brand new video page to see some of the clips.

Stephen Murray continues to benefit from his custom built Sprinter Van. His therapy continues to progress as he got in the pool for the first time ever since his injury to try and loosen up some muscles. The beauty of the van is that it gives him confidence and freedom to not only do therapy but also to have fun trips with his family as they recently went out to Las Vegas and paid a visit to TJ Lavin and some family. Special thanks again to Rockstar Energy Drink for being the only energy drink company to step up and support ARF and for being the main reason why the van project got started. Stephen's first ride for Rockstar was the night he got injured and they have never left his side since.

Mike Franklin is a pro skateboarder who suffered a gnarly accident, getting hit by a car while riding on a street motorcycle. He is very lucky to have not lost his foot to amputation and just recently he got the green light to start some low impact therapy. Mike simply said, "I can't wait to get back on my board! Once I get back it's over! I am tired of staring out the window at the same trees every day. I can't thank the ARF enough for wanting to help me get back out there." Mike is a cool dude who was instrumental in getting a public park put in at his local spot in Santa Clarita. It's been a pleasure meeting him and his family. I personally can't wait to see him back on the board.

Just recently ARF was invited to participate in Ryan Sheckler's "Skate for a Cause" which greatly benefitted the Make a Wish Foundation. ARF had a booth, banners around the Etnies park course and we even had a fun game in our booth. The goal for the booths was to have a skate themed carnival game and we built a cornhole game but instead of throwing bean bags the players tossed skate wheels. Winners got t-shirts, wrist bands, X Balm and high fives.

As ARF continues to grow its list of contacts we are really pleased to be working with Oasis Sports Medical Group and Dr. Chao out of San Diego. Their staff has been great with helping us navigate through expensive surgeries and rehabilitation for our community of professionals. CTI is also getting on the plan and we can't thank these guys enough. It's wild to find out that just the screws used in ACL repair are normally sold at $700!

As the summer season is about ready to get in full swing it's the perfect time for companies to get involved with ARF. With the endemic media attention to the contest season and the major media attention that comes with the Dew Tour and X Games, let's give them something to talk about! Show your support for the industry that supports you and make a tax deductible donation to the only 501(c)3 dedicated to helping professionals who suffer major injuries in BMX, FMX and Skate. If you are a company who is based in action sports ask yourself... what is keeping you from participating? For those companies who have participated in the past we thank you and we respectfully remind you to continue your support. Contact me at Aaron@AthleteRecoveryFund.com to find out how you can help.

See you on the road this summer!

Aaron Cooke - Athlete Recovery Fund - Executive Director