If you have bookmarked this page, you may want to update your bookmark/favorite

It is to keep Dave's extended family and friends up to date on his condition after his snowboarding accident on December 21.

This is a private page but all of Dave's friends are welcome to visit, and it is ok to pass the URL on to any of Dave's many friends. While Dave faces a huge challenge, we are all optimistic that this life changing event will lead Dave to new opportunities for him to practice his personal magic and touch many more lives with his art. The tremendous outpouring of support from so many of his friends around the world is a great source of strength for Dave and all of us who are fortunate enough to be part of his family. Keep the prayers and positive energy flowing while he works his way through Rehab.

Our thanks to Debi Wilkinson for this picture of Dave (and the one near the bottom of this page) taken at the Ponte Vedra 3v3 while Dave was working as our photographer

Our Thanks to Chris's Dad, Mike for sending us the picture. Click to see it full size

If you aren't familiar with Dave's work, or maybe even if you are, you may want to visit his web page here http://www.rightskool.com/

First papparazzi photos from Craig Hospital. Center is "Master G" on the set of his new rap video

Febuary 2-Dave ate lots of ice cream today in an attempt to survive the meds and the prison sentence of bed rest! Opened and read lots of cards and says thanks!

January 28 - Dave got his first good look at the huge volume of cards, letters, and emails that have been coming in.

January 26 - First pictures from Craig Hospital posted (above) Dave and some of his visitors

January 25 - Card came today from CHIPS stars officers Ponch Poncharello (Erik Estrada) and Jon Baker (Larry Wilcox). We suspect it may not be real. Checking to see if it is genuine.

January 24 - Cards and letters keep pouring in. We are running out of wall space to hang them all. Dave loves them all.

January 23 - News came today about a fundraiser planned for Feb 17th at Ryckman Park in Melbourne Beach

January 21 - Heather headed back to Melbourne after a full week in Denver and Mary Ann took over as "Angel in Charge". The routine of PT (physical therapy) and OT (occupational therapy) take up a big part of each day as Dave is working hard on his recovery.

January 19 - Heather got some relief as Mary Ann returned to from a few days in Melbourne as Dave began to get into an improved routine, able to sleep through the night several nights in a row and to eat well on a regular schedule. We have hope that his body now will be able to get to the task of serious healing. Dave spent 5 hours in a wheelchair as part of the program to have him out of bed as much as possible.

January 18 - Follow up article about Dave in the Steamboat Pilot & Today Newspaper here click here

January 17 - Dave's Aunt, Dr Jane Breck returned to Pittsburgh this morning leaving Heather as the "Head Angel" until Mary Ann returns on Friday. Dave is scheduled to get his favorite meal - Tofu Pad Thai for lunch today... special order, not from the hospital cafeteria. That is a good sign in the campaign for Dave to regain the weight he lost since the accident.

January 16 - We found out that the new trach is a type 6, and the move to a Jackson 5 will be later this week. Dave moved in to a private room on the 16th, Room 307 and is getting into a good routine of PT (Physical Therapy) and OT (Occupational Therapy) with the great staff at Craig. Dave has slept better the last 2 days and has been able to eat better as well

January 15 - Dave got a new Tracheostomy (Trach) today. They have been reducing the size of the trach step by step as we move forward toword the time when the trach is eliminated altogether. Dave was reassured that his taste in music will not be affected by wearing a type "Jackson 5" trach. He had another ride in a wheel chair today as part of the plan to increase his activity and time out of his hospital bed.

January 10-14 - Dave is getting into the routine at Craig and he and the rehab team get to know each other. Mary Ann returns home on the 11th and I get to spend the 12th - 14th with Dave along with Jules who has been there since early in the week Dave's Aunt, Pediatrician Dr Jane Breck arrives on Saturday and Heather returns for her second visit on Sunday as Jules and I head back to Florida. All of us manage to avoid the effects of another winter storm that shuts down part of the west and midwest.

January 9 - Early start as Dave rides in an Air Ambulance to Denver and Craig Hospital for the beginning of Rehab while Mary Ann and Jules take Dave's latest car across I-70 to meet him. The day starts great as Dave handles the flight well and all systems are go. He has an uncomfortable afternoon before settling in for his first night in rehab.

January 8 - Plans are set for Air Ambulance transport to Craig Hospital in Denver early Tuesday Jan 9. We are all excited with the prospect of a successful stay in a great rehab facility. Tons of support keeps coming from all over. Less than half of the recent emails have been added to the list at the bottom of this page Beautiful thoughts form some beautiful people. More will be posted on Tuesday

January 6 - More preparation and planning for the move to rehab today. Dave spent 2 hours completely free of the ventilator as progress continues.

January 5 - Today was the "changing of the guard" as Heather left to head back to Florida after more than a week while Jules and Dave's Sister Ann returned for their second visit and will be helping Mary Ann at David's side. It looks like plans are being finalized for David to move to Craig Hospital in Denver for his rehab. Craig is highly recommended and we are hopeful for a successful rehab.

January 4 - Dave had his first chance to go outside since he arrived at St Mary's. Pulmonologist Brian, nurses Jan and Bobbie, and Heather and Mary Ann bundled Dave up in a jacket and blankets, loaded him into a wheelchair and the whole entourage went outside into a clear 40 degree Colorado afternoon. It appears that Dave is about ready to be transferred to a rehab facility.

January 2 - We celebrated a big step forward as the took the feeding tube out today and Dave will be taking all his nourishment the standard way now. Dave had woorked hard to learn to eat and swallow with the tracheostomy in place... well done Dave!

12/31 - Dave got emails from Professional Surfers Damien and CJ Hobgood and a call from former Olympic skier Billy Kidd today as the support from all around the world continues to come to him.

12/30 - Mary Ann and Heather are with Dave almost around the clock as Dave keeps up the pace of gradual but steady progress. Dave watched parts of a 2005 Kelly Slater DVD with Heather and he was able to eat some peaches and a little applesauce as he grows his ability to handle solid food. Dave spends time each day with a physical therapist and also has time each day dedicated to exercising breathing on his own so he can progress toward the time when he can say goodbye to the ventilator altogether.

12/29 - Kent Vertrees sent an email to the Powdercats Nation and put up a web page about Dave. Emails have been coming in from Dave's friends from all over the country wishing Dave a speedy recovery. You can see Kent's work here http://www.steamboatpowdercats.com/videos/dave_genchi.htm and if you want to email good wishes to Dave, send to genchi@steamboatpowdercats.com. Dave had a busy day with lots to do... physical therapy, practicing breathing off the respirator, etc. He passed a test so he can start eating some food normally. He had to prove that he could control his throat muscles enough so that food taken through his mouth would bypass the trach and go into his stomach, not into his lungs. Most of us dont; appreciate how amazing the human body is.... even the least coordinated of us can take food/drink and air in through the same opening and automatically have the body route the solids and liquids to the stomach while the air goes to the lungs..... amazing

12/28 - Dave asked for a milkshake today, a definite good sign. The doctors and nurses have him working on breathing on his own regularly in the hope that will speed the time when he will not need help with his breathing at all.

Dave's 2nd family at Steamboat Powdercats has set up the Dave Genchi Recovery Fund to help with the long recovery and rehabilitation he is facing.

Click here to see information about the Fund Our thanks to Eric Deering for setting up the account and to Pete Scully, Kevin Owens, Kent Vertrees, Dave Barnes, and the rest of the Powdercats family for all their help and support

12/27 - Dave was moved out of Intensive Care into Room 319 today and they have reduced the amount of sedation and pain meds. He is becoming more lucid and starting to grasp what happened. He is able to communicate now that he does not have the respirator tube in his mouth, and that must provide some small measure of relief for him. The folks at Steamboat Powdercats are setting up the Dave Genchi Recovery fund at a bank in Steamboat Springs. We should have the details very soon.

12/26 - The surgeons performed a tracheostomy this evening so that Dave no longer has the respirator tube going through his mouth and he is able to swallow for the first time in 4 days.

This should ease some of Dave's discomfort as up to now he has not been able to swallow (like being in the dentist chair with the dentist in your mouth for 4 days) and has only been able to communicate by nodding his head to yes/no questions. He will be learning to talk with the "trach" as well since it diverts the airflow from the vocal cords and normal speech is not possible. The procedure was almost delayed until Thursday when an emergency delayed one of the two surgeons and created a conflict with "family plans" for the other surgeon. After Mary Ann showed him the pictures of Dave taking soccer photos, the surgeon arranged for someone else to coach his son's soccer game so the surgery would not have to be delayed.

Dave's good friend and an inspiration to all of us with her positive energy, Jules left this morning to return to work in Fla. Jules drove 5 hours each way between Salt Lake City and the hospital in Grand Junction because there were no flights to get her any closer. Only hours after Jules left, Mary Ann was joined by Dave's neighbor Heather who had driven all the way from Melbourne Beach to give her support. Google maps describe that as 2,154 miles and 32 hours of driving... wow!

12/25 Christmas - Dave had a difficult Christmas day and the time off the respirator was short. We are hopeful for a better day on Dec 26th. Dave's Sister Ann left this morning to get back to Florida to husband Todd who has been holding down the fort in Melbourne so she can get back to vet school in Gainesville Tuesday morning. Al left this afternoon to return to Melbourne for a few days to Challenge Sports caught up.

12/24 Morning- Dave was able to breathe on his own this morning without the ventilator for about 2 hours. The doctors will continue to wean him from the breathing support as he gets stronger. Family and friends please keep the prayers coming as we look forward to Dave's recovery.

12/23 Afternoon- Ann has arrived safely in Grand Junction to join Mary Ann at Dave's side, Al will be there soon.

12/23 Morning- Dave moved his right arm this morning! This is good news as he has shown the ability to move both arms at this point. We are praying for continued good news and activity with Dave's recovery. He is still on the ventilator at this time, which is very frustrating as he wants to speak, but hopefully the doctors will be able to get him off the ventilator soon.

12/22 Afternoon- Surgery lasted about 3 hours. Dr Tice said the procedure went better than he had feared it might... not as complex as it might have been. If I understood correctly, he put a plate in to support/repair the 6th cervical vertebrae. There is no real news on Dave's recovery. The 24-48 hours after the accident and the surgery are expected reveal information about his recovery. He is still intubated and on a respirator. The Doctor may try letting him breathe on his own to see how he handles it once he has come through the effects of surgery and the general anesthesia. Mary Ann landed in Grand Junction at 3:10 local time and will meet with doctor Tice for a complete briefing shortly.

12/22 AM -Dave went into surgery at 9AM CST today Dec 22 in the Level 1 trauma unit of St Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction to repair damage to cervical vertebrae.. The surgery is expected to last about 3 hours

What happened? Dave was snowboarding on his job as photographer with Steamboat Powdercats, in Steamboat Springs CO, on December 21 with the Powdercat guides when he tried to make a surf turn on what turned out to be a thin layer of snow on a large rock. the thin layer of snow did not allow the snowboard to grip in the turn and Dave became airborne landing on his head and shoulder. Thankfully his helmet, which was cracked in the fall, appears to have prevented head injuries. He does appear to have spinal chord injuries, but it is too soon to tell if there will be lasting effects, or what they will be

Dave was fortunate to be with his friends from Steamboat Powdercats who are all well trained to deal with ski and snowboard injuries, and they got him off the mountain quickly

They took Dave to Yampa Valley Medical Center and from there he was airlifted to St Mary's Hospital Friday night.

Out thanks to Dave's "Colorado family", the powdercat crew for their help and support and especially to Pete and Kevin who drove to Grand Junction Friday night and stayed at Dave's side while Mary Ann was en route form Florida.

Holiday travel compounded by the weather shutdown of Denver's airport made it very difficult to get from Florida to Grand Junction. Mary Ann was able to get on a flight to Salt Lake City and with connection to Grand Junction arriving around 2:30. We expect the surgery to be over around noon and we guess that Dave will come out of general anesthesia sometime after Mary Ann arrives.

Keep Dave in your prayers. I will keep this page up to date as we get reports from Grand Junction

· With wires, please also include the account number and the Eric Deering for account reference.

· If you wish to send a check made out to the David Genchi Recovery Fund. The address is Wells Fargo, PO Box 774888, Steamboat Springs CO 80477.

· For those locally, you can go directly to the bank and talk with Brandy or any of the tellers.

The fund account representative is Brandy Forsyth and her direct line is 970-870-2075.

Please contact us if you have any other questions regarding contributing to this fund and thank you again for your support.

Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun, food, music, raffles and movies.

Raffles will include a weekend for 2 at the Crowne Plaza Indialantic, Surfboards, Surf Gear, Restaurant and Local Store Gift Certificates

Thanks to the efforts of President Deb Olson and Associate Editor Travis Gainsley, Steamboat Magazine will be offering one of a kind prints of work donated by their staff of professional photographers. Click here to go to the Steamboat Magazine Web Site.

Dave...

I obviously heard about your situation after your accident and I'm sorry to hear of the misfortune. All I can say is that a lot of your friends around the world are thinking about you and hoping for your speedy recovery and that you never know what life's gonna throw at you and where that will take you but do all you can to accept what that is and great things can happen from there. Not sure if you are staying in Colorado or heading to FL but I hope to be able to drop by and pay a visit if I'm able to. Be well and talk soon.

Sincerely,

Kelly Slater

==============================

Hi Dave and Family,

I hope the transition goes smoothly to Craig's hospital. I wrote last week

about finding the contact info for my friend's brother who recovered from

his accident. He also had a stay at Craigs. He is completely open to

speaking with you guys...as he as been through exactly what you're going

through. I believe he lives in Denver, so maybe he can even visit when the

time is right. His name is Darren Manthe and he can be reached at:

(970)531-1606

Thinking of you all, Danielle Spak

========================

Dave

I just heard about your news. I'm sorry. I'm sure you'll over come this obstacle. Keep positive! We are all praying for your speedy recovery. I wish you all the best and stay strong. You can get through this if anyone can. Take care, Todd

Todd Morcom

Melbourne Bch, FL

=======================================

Dave,

I was shocked at the news that I heard from my father about your accident.

I do not know if you remember me, but I went with you all for one day in March of ‘06. My dad is your friend’s boss/associate/trainer at NASA. You followed me on video as 3 or 4 other people fell down. I do not know how many people I forwarded your link to, but safe to say it has been seen across the country with much jealousy!

I just wanted to let you know that you helped a great deal with probably my best weekend of skiing in my life. I hope and pray that you will be out there again, in fact I know that you will.

Keep a positive mental attitude and let me know if I can help in any way. I live in Denver, so do not be afraid to ask for anything.

Thoughts and many prayers to you in this life challenge that I know you can overcome.

Christopher J. Ayotte

Colorado/Wyoming

=======================

Dear Dave,

I recently heard about your terrible accident. I am so sorry to hear that this has happened. Just a few weeks ago my son, daughter and her boyfriend (the Rock Star) skied with you and had a wonderful time. I have also skied with you on several occasions over the last 4 or 5 years. We cherish all the wonderful pictures you have taken and are thankful for your friendly attitude and photographic expertise. We wish you a speedy recovery and God bless you.

Sincerely,

Jim Horstman

======================================

Dave,

Just wanted to say I was glad to here that you are improving and now moving ahead to rehab!! Should be home in a week or so (Hawaii) and will call you as much as I can. Think of you all the time...I know you will improve fast!! I think quick learning and fast healing is a Genchi thing. Anyways, just wanted to say hey and always glad to here positive pdates on your condition.

~Stephen~ (Genchi stationed in Iraq)

=================================

Hi Genchi!

there is a huge void here without you, and you are greatly missed. We miss your boundless energy, sense of humor, and your bubbly personality. We miss bunk willy,

bobo, zork, dr. zork, ralph, fuzzy bunnies,giblets, and yetis. I actually sold a canadian mom on our moonlight tour on the yeti den, hook line and sinker. I even told her that if she

heard growling than that’s the mother’s den, and to be extra careful. Another day, when I was snapping photos, a woman asked if I had studied photography, and I said yes, at the

zork institute of photography….which in a sense is true.

Every day people have been asking how you’re doing, giving money to your fund, and sending prayers to you. You wouldn’t believe how many people ask about you and miss you around here.

Especially me, Dave! Candice sends her prayers as well.

Be well, get well!

Rob Bannister

===============================

Dave,

Glad to hear of your continued improvement. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Know your friends in Suwannee County, FL are thinking of you ( Publix Suwannee Valley 3V3).

Sincerely,

Greg Scott, CPRP
Parks & Recreation Director
Suwannee Parks & Recreation
Live Oak, FL 32064

============================

We're with ya' bro' !

Hey Dave,

Like everyone else, I was super bummed when I heard the news of your accident. flashed back on my broken leg and broken wrist , both incurred on snowboarding adventures, but neither can compare to what your going through now...

the only similarity is that you will get though it !!!

Your positivity, determination and appreciation for life will all contribute to your recovery.

I'm sure you've heard that a giant fundraiser is being planned for you back here (2/17) and my band New School Dropouts will be performing. I know this is a ridiculously tough time for you, but take heart and strength in the fact that an entire community of friends cares deeply for you and will be pulling together in a show of support.

Anything I can do, just let me know and it's yours !

God bless,

Dave--
David Settgast
South Island Real Estate

====================

I read in the paper that you were injured and just wanted to let you know

that you're in my prayers

Beckie (Groseclose) Van Heden ( one of the mel-hi twins)

==============================================

Hi Dave,

I heard about you accident from Lacy and wanted to wish you well.

I've been keeping up with your progess on your website and am glad your doing better. Have a speedy recovery.

Good Luck

BR Davis

www.randomactscrew.com

www.surfguru.com

=======================================

Hey Dave,

Chris & Tom Szuba here. Lots of folks in Melbourne keeping an eye on your progress. Hope your stay at rehab is short and successful!

Best wishes and take care,

Chris & Tom

===================================

Hi Dave - I know we haven't talked in a long time but I just wanted you to know that Tina and I are both thinking about you and praying that all goes well for you. We look forward to checking your website to see your progress.

Jon & Tina Shepherd

================================

Dave,

As you probably already heard Jamie, Elia, Brandon at Spectrum, Ana, and I are heading up a lute-a-thon. We have a whole team of helpers ( just about every one you’ve ever known and some you’ve never met) working on an event to help you out with the funds. Side note: I hope this is all going to be another chapter on your book. Any ways, I have plans to have three large screen projectors each playing samples of your work. One for Soccer, one for Surfing, and one bigger one for Boat Trippin the premier for the night.

I wanted to know if you have any requests or thoughts. Also I wanted to know if any of the soccer highlights from all the years are available in a high-res format. I figured you might have a magic vault drive some where. I want to use most of the local Soccer footage and some of the others in a continuous loop which will be playing in a 20’ by 30’ tent playing on 103” HD . The tent will have side to keep out the light during the day. I’m hoping to attract the soccer crowd and their kids to that venue during the day. We have lots of other things as well like Nats brother possibly and Dave Settgast’s band New School dropouts for sure. Also another band still pending. Fire department cooking for the masses ect. I’ll stop there for now. Date is pending Town of Melbourne Beach approval for Feb 17th.

Brian

================================

Hey Dave,

I just want to let you know that we’ve all been thinking about you and praying for you. I hope that Craig Hospital takes good care of you. I was over at Nielson’s last night watching the Gators win the national championship and my mind went back to the last time I saw you there….

All our Love,

The Hays family

================

I don't know you; however, I read the article on Transworld Snowboarding online. Being a snowboarder for 16 years of my life admiring those who are able to do it for a living, I have the utmost respect for you. I am sorry about the accident and I wish you a speedy recovery. I blew out my knew at Bear Mountain, CA last May and have not be3en able to get back on the slopes yet as I am still recovering. Should be out there by the end of the month though...I am very excited and so should you because you will be back on the slopes eventually after you rehab yourself. Best of Luck Dave and remember to stay POSITIVE. Listen to good music in the room if you can...watch snowboard videos (which you have made)...stay in touch with your friends and everything be be just fine.
Best,
Adam Donahue
===============================

Dave,

I just heard from Jerry McCabe last night about what happened. I am so sorry to hear that, but am sure you will do what it takes to carry on. Stay strong and should you ever need anything please do not hesitate to let me know. You and your family have done so much for me in life and with soccer I am indebted to you all, so please let me know how I may help.

You will be in my thoughts and my parents thoughts too! All the best!!!

Sincerely,

Jesse Goldfarb

=======================================

Hey Dave,

Megan Campbell emailed me about your accident and I'm still in shock! I've

been praying for you and checking your website daily to see how your doing.

I am living down in Tortola, BVI now and think about the Melbourne crew

often. Espically on a day when the waves are kicking and people are all of a

sudden "sick" but their boards are in the back of their cars! Kiss ass in rehab! Love, Julie Schneider (kits friend from Sail Caribbean)

=============================

Hi Dave. Our son plays through Challenge Sports in the tournaments. We were shocked to read about what happened to you and the recovery you are going through. We were in Steamboat when this happened. We just wanted to let you know that we will be praying for you and trusting the Lord to bring you a speedy recovery. God bless.

Dave, Dana, David and Gracie McBroom

==========================

Mary Ann and Al,

. All of us at Mountain Capital give Dave our warmest wishes for a speedy recovery, and have made a donation to the recovery fund. I do not know Dave, but I feel for him and your family as he shares the same passion that brings us all to the Yampa Valley.

Peter Munson

==========================

Brother Dave,

I am truely in shock over this, I just heard about your accident. I wish there was some way we could talk right now, I would tell you how you are going to come back from all of this..... How amazing medicine is that they can repair your neck like they will! I dont know why life insists on testing people in this way. I have all the confidence in the world that you are strong enough to pass this test 100%. I have very few friends that I care for like you pal, I was telling my friends about your adventures just the other day. Dave, No matter how far away you are, we stay close at heart. I know as soon as they pull that tube out of your neck you will be on your phone networking some kind great plan to get through this. (can you buy Verdibre on E bay?)

I want you to know that you have Becky and I's 1000% support. If there is anything, we can do.... Anything.... You get intouch with us through your Mom and Dad and you got it... If your parents need anything... They got it....Anything I can do, do not be shy... 631-745-1169

I love you man, this really sucks and I know you are wishing this didnt happen, but we will get through this..... You will be shooting photos, creating adventures and making people happy, like ALWAYS Dr. I know it.....

:Much Love and Support, Becky and Steve

=================================

Hi Dave,

Wishing you a speedy recovery. You and your family are in my prayers.

Love, Mercie

PS I ran into sleepy at Ichabods….that guy never changes!

Mercie Pliego

================================

quick healing

I have entered teams in countless Challengesports 3v3 soccer tournaments. I have never had the opportunity to personally meet Dave, but I have admired his photos and videos starting from the very first tournament we entered. Please know that the thoughts and prayers of the U-12 girls “Ballhogs” from Orange Park, FL are with the Genchi family as you work your way through this. We will miss seeing the “guy with the big hat” at our tournaments, but pray for a quick return to the sidelines for him.

Randy Bunn

====================================

Hey Dave.

We've never met before but I heard of your accident

through a friend of mine. I wanted to let you know

that you've got another friend praying for a full and

speedy recovery. Stay strong, brother...you can do

it. May your future be full of off shore breezes and

face shots.

Eric K

======================

Yo G,

Dear Al,

Thank you for your email response and please know that you are all very much in my thoughts

I'm not the least bit surprised that Dave is receiving hundreds of emails, your son is a special person. Dave's zest for life and passion

for his video and photography work has inspired me for years and I'm committed to helping in any way that I can to assist Dave on his road

to recovery. I also want you to know that some of my most prized possessions are Dave's pictures of me and my friends snowboarding with SPC. Dave's

work reminds me of how lucky I am. Dave has a true talent for capturing the beauty and joy of spending a powder day with good friends in Buffalo Pass . However, more than just

capturing the joy of the day on film, Dave's full-of-life attitude has been a even greater contribution to my joy of powder days at SPC. As

talented as Dave is, he's an even better person. Dave's charisma, his love of people, his enthusiasm for his work, his appreciation for the

beauty of the day, the quality of the snow, the grace of someone's turn, and his sense of humor and compassion are what I've been thinking

about most these last couple of weeks. For me, and I don't think I'm alone, the favorite parts of my day at SPC were the times spent with

Dave. Everyone loves to meet up with Dave during the day and reviewing his pictures at the end of the back in the office is a real

treat . His passion for life is contagious. Al, I'm telling you that during a day of some of the finest skiing in the world with unmatched

adrenalin and beauty, your son, without exception, elevates everyone's mood with his presence. He puts smiles on our faces, make us laugh and

pushes us to enjoy this beautiful day and scenery just a little bit more. He really is a special person. And that's why I think we are

all so optimistic about his recovery. He continues to inspire me and he's constantly in my thoughts and prayers. I look forward to seeing

him again on Buffalo Pass soon.

With Much Love,

Kip Foley

=========================

1/5

=============================================

i have been praying for all you guys and i will continue to pray for a speedy recovery. thanks mr. genchi for keeping us all posted.

God bless you all,

Sonya G. Fronckowiak, P.E.

==================================================

Work hard

Hi Dave,

We've never actually met but I heard about your accident from my friend

Danielle Spak (we're Eau Claire, WI). I just read on your blog that you

should be heading to a rehab facility soon. I'm sure you've heard of Craig

hospital in Denver. It was on the the nations premiere rehab facilities.

The reason I know of this place is because my brother Dan was there for a

couple of months in 2005. He lives in Winter Park and was skiiing on

Berthoud Pass when he got kicked weird by a windlip and ended up breaking

both legs. The problem was the bone marrow leaked into his system and

worked it's way into his lungs and brain. Basically he had clogged his

lungs up with the fatty component of the marrow, a fat embolism. Once he

survived the two weeks in the coma on the vent, he still had brain damage

essentially. Fortunately, the fat works it's way out over time and he

recovered. His injuries were different from yours but he stillworked hard

to recover from an injury that nearly killed him. With the help of the

staff and Craig hospital and all his friends and family he is fully

recovered and still living and skiing in Winter Park (I'll be heading out

again February to see him again, no snow in WI!!) Remember, doctors are

just people, they are not gods and don't know everything. It's your desire

and strength that will really determine the outcome and I think you'll be

back shooting great video in Steamboat again soon. By the way, I checked

out the video clips on the website they were great. Floating down through

the fresh pow looked amazing... I almost jumped in the car right then to

head out to Steamboat!!! (I've skiied good powder and I know what that's

like watching you guys in the video which probably makes it worse for me) So, know that a guy you've never met is pulling for you. I want to see that

new video of you back on the hill!!!!!

Craig Manthe

========================================

Hi David,

I just heard of your accident. Annie and my prayers and are for your swift and full recovery.

Al and Annie!

al zabel

=======================================

Hey Monkey!!!

Hi Dave,

I hope you are getting better! I don't know who will be taking the pictures of the little monkeys until you are back in action, but you better loan them your straw hat.

Hope to see you soon! My prayers are with you and your family.

Anything I can do, feel free to ask.

Love,

Ellen Prendergast

====================================

get well Dave

David,

Hey Dave, it's Jeremy Poirier (soccer/skiing pal from Melbourne). I was in Melbourne this past week visiting my mother and heard about your accident. I hope your spirits are high and your doing okay. Hang in there. By the way, I still have the first skiing video you made (the one from Crested Butte). It is a classic. If you have access to a VCR I will send it to you. Once again, hang in there.

Jeremy

=======================================

Hi Dave

We want you to know that Joe had forwarded your "Web Page" to us. So we

have been following your progress. We are both praying

for your continued recovery, and send our very best wishes to you and

your Mom, Dad and Ann. Your cousin, Dorathea and her

husband, Bob are coming here today and we will catch them up

on your progress. Even though we haven't seen you in a long time, we

want you to know that we love you and know that you will do great in

your recovery. Love Bob and Shirley Genchi

==================================

Hi Dave!!!

Hello Dave, I just ck'd your site and wanted you to know Surfguru is here to HELP!!!!

I know how strong and determined you are...And I'm sure you have the best doctors and nurses

there, by your side!!! I will be letting my surfguru audience know what's going on with You and your rehab progress.

And trying to help anyway I and Surfguru can!!!!

Mike , informed me about the accident and I'll be working with him on anything

that we can do to help get you back....

Your old friend

Lacy max

surfguru.com

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Our prayers and Best Wishes for your recovery

Hi,

We are Ernie and Gwen Ferguson who are in Al and Mary Ann's Sunday School class.

We want you to know Pairs and Spares all are praying for you and they are a powerful

bunch! Many are keeping up with your progress thru the website and thank your Dad

for keeping us up-to-date.

Ernie and I wish you a speedy and complete recovery and will keep you and your

family in our prayers.

Gwen Ferguson

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Well Wishes from California

Dave-

I am SO sorry to hear about your accident. I knew something was wrong when I hadn't heard from you in awhile...so I checked the Steamboat Powdercat's website, and found out what happened. You are such a amazing person and I know you will make a full recovery. Your spirit is strong and will help you through this.

I wasn't sure how to get in touch with you, so I am emailing you through the site. I would like to come see you. If it's easier, I can wait until you get settled in your rehab facility, I can fly out for the weekend. Hopefully, someone reading this email can get me the info on your location.

All my love,

Shelby

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Genchi,

I’ve been praying for you and your family since I heard from Kent what had happened.

I woke up this morning right after a dream that I was up in Steamboat, went in to the office for a day on the Cat and you were there. Post accident, with the same great energy…and you were able to walk. From reading the updates at Challenge Sports I get that the likelihood of walking again is simply not good. But I felt like I should share with you to hold on to what is possible, don’t lose hope about the future, and who knows what could end up happening down the road!!

The attached pic is one that you completely set up… “Hey, I’m heading down to the right and will drop under that lip and shoot back up and across. Rip down to the left and nail a surf turn and it will be an amazing shot!!” Well, it’s been my screensaver for the last couple of years and when I see it now, it’s a constant reminder to me of your vision and ability to see and create what others can not. You have a special talent for that and one that I think will continue to have a big impact others in the future!

Take Care & I’ll make sure and stop in when you make it down to Denver!

Blake Frye/CEO

Interstate Connections of Colorado

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Get better soon

Dave,

Mark Sloop here. Just learned of your misfortunes on Buff a few weeks ago. Really sorry to hear about your injuries. I hope time will heal everything and that you can ride again shortly. If there is anything that I can do to help with your recovery or with photos at Powdercats, please let me know. I think I still remember how to shoot photos and video. Just like riding a bike, right!!! Well, get better soon, and be in touch.

Sincerely, Mark Sloop

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Hello Dave, we have kept close tabs on you since day one and continue to pray daily for your complete recovery. We know that it’s a slow and often frustrating process, but you are a tough guy and have such a positive outlook on life. We are encouraged by Al’s constant updates on the web site that you will continue to gain strength and soon be free of all the tubes and machines. Your work there is quite impressive and has obviously touched a lot of people through your filming on the slopes. The photos of you and the guys on the slopes reminded me of a song from way back called Super Skier which describes me and my skiing philosophy. It ends with the line…You buy the fastest clothes you can, talk skiing like a man, but just don’t let people catch you on the slopes. Continue to get well. Zack and Edna Osborne

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Gench,

I'm so sorry to hear of your injury and everything you've been going through. You are one of the most energetic, passionate, and determined people I've met -- so I know you will make it past this tough road, to start the next one stronger than before. I'm forever grateful for the ways you helped myself and others when we were displaced during the 2004 hurricane season -- not to mention the many surfs up and down the CFL coastline (from "Pig Hole" to Third Ave) and all the conversations, soundtrack sessions, Genchispeak, and laughs. I look forward to more in the future. Remember: No one else puts a pulse on the local surf (or skate or snow) scene, for the local, everyday surfer, like you do (even though you've spent your fair share of time shooting pros like the Hobgoods and Slaters, too). No one else has ever taken a decent pic of me surfing (I know it's not easy!) and I have a full folder of shots thanks to you. And countless other everymen and women have similar Genchi files thanks to your passion and enthusiasm for documenting all aspects of the ride.

You are in my prayers and positive thoughts.

Take Care and Get Better Soon,

Fish

-- Mike Fish

Associate Editor TransWorld SURF

Oceanside, CA

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Hi Dave,

I can't thank you enough for all that you did for our first disabled ski camp last March. Everyone loved the film that you did on our participants...I am so sorry to hear of your accident. I just got back to Steamboat for the winter. We are having our second camp next ad we will be thinking of you....

I have devoted my life to working with all people with disabilities and I am HERE for you!!!! I was just talking to Billy Kidd and we are both pulling for you...

I know that at this time you must be frustrated and wondering what it next but you must be strong and positive and know that all of us in Steamboat are pulling for you much prayers to you and your family. I will stay in touch with you, I care!

Jimmie Heuga who is an Olympic skier has MS and Billy Kidd's best friend ,and a great friend of mine has a great attitude which is to always think "CAN DO".......We all CAN DO anything we are faced with each day!

There is not that much snow anyway and it has been really cold here!!!!

Linda Whittle

PS I am the girl with the mickey mouse painted helmet!!!!

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Hey Dave,

Good to hear the news about the move to Craig. Had a great talk with your Aunt Jane last Friday! She was after some copies of the magazine and dvd, so I sent them to your Grandma's in PA...hope they made it by Saturday.

Cheers buddy and hope to be able to see you soon.

Trav

=================================

Dave,

I just learned of your injury today and wanted to send you a well wishing e-mail. I can somewhat relate to health issues as I had a heart transplant 3 and half years ago. I know first hand what's it's like to have doctors tell you things you don't want to hear and to have your health ripped away from you, tests done on you constantly all the time, not to have sunlight touch your body for weeks on end, hearing different diagnoses everytime a different doctor walks in, scared, confused, left wondering about the future.

Well I can tell you first hand the farther down the this road you go the more clear things will become, answers and things will appear from people you won't expect. Progress that doctors say won't be possible, will be made in stride. And in a short time what seems to be a tragic situation will turn into a blessing. Doors that you never thought of even existed will be opened just for you. A new world of oppertunity will arise for you to take hold of.

Dave,

I want to encourage you to walk down this new path in your life, blessing await you, I know it doesn't seem like it now, but they are there! I pray that the Lord Jesus Christ be with you and your family and He gives you strength and guidance down this path.

John Holeman

=================================================

Dear Dave,

Having been ahead of anyone I know in the craft of film-making, your set back is obviously very painful and freakish. I thought how terrible

these sufferings may be effecting you aside the Steamboat community.

When I heard about your injuries from one of your brothers on the mountain with you that day it nearly seemed impossible.

Much of the video I ever have sen from your collection is all I ever have seen of skiing of snowboarding! I hope this urges you not to give

up and that in time the injuries heal , because the footage you offer is magnificent!

Sincerely,

Kyle V.

Gauley River Trip Mate 2004'

===============================

hey genchi, i was just on 2ndlight.com surf forum and some guy posted a minute long clip on youtube of you, twig, kit and i surfing another epic day in mel. beach from 03. i pray for steady progress in your recovery. we all want to see you back in the lineup asap! zach

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Thinking of you Dave!

Hey Dave,

We've been following your progress and wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you and you are certainly in our prayers! Hang in there!

Karen (Ragsdale) Wolf

Denny and Frances Ragsdale

Andrew and Jill Ragsdale

====================================

Greetings Powdercats,

Thanks for having me back again this year.

As usual it was a blast to get out and play in the snow cats.

I must say that my heart has weighed heavy with the news of Dave's injury. I hope that some small amount of good may come from it. For me it has made me step back and consider the intensity that I carry with me all the time. I only met Dave once. It was last season on a Cat trip.

He made a sincere impact on me that has stuck with me all this time. I guess for now I have chosen see him as I last did laughing and riding with a camera in one hand.

I wish you guys a peaceful and powder filled season.

Please let Dave know that he has some serious positive energy focused his way from NJ.

Thanks

Ride safe

Jason Fenton

==============================

Dave,

Sorry to hear of your accident! Our thoughts are with you! This is a tough break but we know you can make it through. Keep your chin up and know we all want you to have a full recovery and get back in the POW asap! Good luck and we'll look for news of you gettin' it back!

Mark Heine

San Francisco, Ca.

===================================

Hay Genchi,

I was checking the surf today at 4 th avenue and thinking of

all the waves we have shared togather "out back". Also of

all the photos and video clips you have sent me. Now its my

turn to send some to you. Here is a sunrise and an empty

ocean waiting for your return. The water is still just as warm

as the last time we surfed togather before you left for the season

in the winter wonderland. I'm still surf'n in just that light "goat

skin" like we last surfed togather in. Get back over here so

all your friends here can help with your recovery like the rest

of your world wide amigos are doing.

Aloha

Tom & Ann Morton

================================

Just wishing you a speedy recovery. We miss seeing the guy with the big straw hat at the 3v3 tournaments.....Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family...

Always,

Chynna McGirt, Lil Vipers - Vero Beach

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Greetings and prayers from Savannah!

Dear Dave,

Greetings from Savannah. If I remember correctly...you spent some time here at SCAD...and we visited about that on a couple different trips I've taken with SPC. I am the pastor of Savannah Christian Church...and I've shown some of your pictures during our services. Cool stuff.

I was stunned and so sorry to learn about your accident. I will be praying for God to work in a strong way in your life; for your healing and full recovery. Whether He works through the doctors care as He so often does...or circumvents them and does something amazing...I'm praying that He will be caring for you...and that you'll have a strong sense of His presence and power.

I will continue to pray and look in on you at the web site.

Grace and peace,

Cam Huxford

==================================

good luck dave

I've never met you, but I recently took a trip to steamboat for the 1st

time and had a taste of the champagne powder there. I saw the news of your

accident at transworldsnowboarding.com, and my prayers are with you, and I

hope you have a full recovery and are back out on the slopes as soon as

possible. Good luck!

Chris Citraro

================================

Dave:

I was stunned to hear of your accident. I was in Steamboat last week and had two Powdercat trips planned -- on my first day I asked Pete when we would see you and he told me about the accident.

I will keep you in my prayers and share with you that you have touched so many people. Although I am just one of 2300 guests that you saw last year, I remember distinctly the spirit that you shared with us as you ripped through the Aspens taking our pictures and using your magic wand to make us look better than we really are.

It is your spirit and energy that makes the experience what is – magical.

Thank you and all my best for your recovery.

Pete

Peter A. Anthony

President

Illumen

Washington, DC

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Jacksonville Beach FL Good Wishes

Trace and I wish you the best in the full recovery. When he saw your picture his first question was isn't that the guy who takes all the pictures at soccer tournaments??