In the early morning hours of May 17, 2006, Joe Pyles was longboarding at night, alone, down a very steep hill. He apparently lost control of his longboard, and crashed into a parked SUV, sustaining critical, life-threatening injuries.

Joe was rushed to Harborview Medical Center, and was taken almost immediately to surgery. He had fractured all of his facial bones, ruptured his spleen, lacerated his liver, and fractured his right femur, resulting in massive uncontrolled bleeding and shock.

That night was the most critical, and in the course of the next 24 hours, he was taken to surgery 3 times before the bleeding was brought under control. He required many blood transfusions, but by the next day, his vital signs had more or less stabilized though he was still in critical condition. The impact of the collision and the swelling in Joe's leg caused much of the tissue to be dead, resulting in an emergency amputation of Joe's right leg.

Currently, Joe is making a slow recovery after two major reconstructive surgeries. Joe and his family and friends can use all the support they can get in this difficult time, so please leave your love on:

Also, for those who live in the Seattle area, there will be a Benefit for Joe on Friday, June 23rd from 12-7pm at Kamiak High School in Mukilteo, Wa. This will include several great bands, a large car wash, food and general entertainment. Please show up and bring your longboards (and a helmet!)- everyone will love to see support from fellow patrons of an activity joe is so passionate about.

thank you so much! If you have questions, please contact me at diamondlollipopathotmaildotcom