(7-28-06) - Submitted by friend and fellow triathlete Pete Cadwell - Dirk Vlieks is an accomplished triathlete, as well as a great friend and training partner of mine out here in California. On June 3, 2006, he was racing at the Honu Half Ironman in Kona, HI when he suffered a brain aneurysm during the bike leg of the race. He became unconscious and was subsequently taken to the med tent, then flown to Hilo and onto Honolulu where he was in the neuro-intensive care unit for about five weeks. After many improvements and degradations of his condition, he has finally returned to a rehab center in Marin County (close to his home) and is undergoing extensive rehabilitation for the AVM, the aneurysm, and the strokes that he suffered since the initial incident...
Dirk's wife Kelsey and their families need as much assistance as possible during this difficult time. The local support from fellow athletes, friends, and family has been incredible with people volunteering to cook meals, go grocery shopping, help with homecare, hospital visits, emotional support, etc. Since this type of support is difficult from such a far distance, I am hoping that fellow triathletes can help out by making contributions to offset the exorbitant cost associated with this tragedy. Healthcare and rehab costs above insurance benefits and lost wages are the two main problems facing Dirk's family, so contributions of any amount, $10 to $10,000+, will be greatly appreciated!
We have set up a website at www.dirkandkelsey.com that has information about the incident, letters from friends and family, photos, and most importantly - how to contribute to the Dirk Vlieks Get Well Fund. PayPal and Active.com are simple ways to contribute, but please take the time to read a bit more about the situation and view photos of Dirk and his family and friends. Please contact me if you have any questions. Thank you in advance for any of your generous contributions!
Pete Cadwell
