SAN DIMAS - On May 29, 2011, 20-year PRCA cowboy Russ Weitl suffered a severe spinal cord injury during a steer wrestling event which left him unable to walk.  He also suffered broken ribs, sternum, collarbone, concussion, and a punctured lung.  He was in intensive care for 139 days and in a rehab center for several weeks before entering “Project Walk”.

On May 5, 2012, the San Dimas Rodeo Committee, spearheaded by Committee Member Sherri Cronin, hosted “Bowling For Russ.”  Their goal was to raise funds to help Russ with his therapy at Project Walk as it is not covered by insurance.

Bowling For Russ - Photo by Gene Hyder

“Thanks to our rodeo family and friends, this event was a huge success;  we were able to raise more than $7,600 to help with Russ’ therapy and to help him walk again,” said Cronin.  Cronin also wished to thank all of the sponsors, the San Dimas Rodeo Committee and all of the people who donated money and raffle items.  “It was so wonderful to see his progress first hand and to see that infectious smile of his” said Cronin.

Rachael Ross, long-time friend and companion of Russ, said “The financial aid is so great, but the emotional aid is absolutely priceless.  Russ saw so many old friends and made so many new friends.”

Russ Weitl rolling out the first ball
Photo by Gene Hyder

Russ Weitl and the San Dimas Rodeo
Committee

Ross, who is a Registered Nurse and a Barrel Racer, added “Knowledge is power, and after exhaustive research, Russ took the bull by the horns and made the decision to join Project Walk.”

Project Walk is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization internationally recognized as a pioneer in the emerging field of activity-based recovery for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).  This unique recovery program combines education and encouragement with the use of some of the most advanced equipment designed to treat SCI, including a few items which have been developed by and for the Project Walk Carlsbad Facility  http://www.projectwalk.org/.

“Russ’ progress has been nothing short of amazing and he continues to work hard each and every day – He is extremely positive and he will walk again one day”, said Ross.   “He remains extremely focused, positive, and together we will make it happen”.

The following video documents therapy Russ receives at Project Walk and was provided by Russ and Rachel.  It truly shows the absolute determination that Russ exhibits each and every day!

Project Walk for Russ from Shawna Nelson on Vimeo.

A great time was had by all who attended Bowling For Russ.  Not only did Russ throw out the first ball, but he was also on hand to visit with friends and to take pictures with several award winners.

Congratulations to San Dimas Rodeo Committee, the sponsors, and of course, each and every one who made donations.

If you wish to donate, you can contact Project Walk directly website. You can also donate through Cookies 4 Russ www.facebook.com/cookies4russ