77-year-old struck by drunk driver while riding trike needs help with recovery costs

On July 1st, David Yarber was riding his three-wheeled bicycle across Southeast Foster Road at 60th when he was hit by an auto user. The person who struck him with their car didn’t stop and was later arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence and Reckless Endangerment.

Now friends of Yarber have turned to GoFundMe to help raise money for his recovery.

Yarber’s recovery is even more complicated because he was born with cerebral palsy. Friends of his who reached out to BikePortland to share word of his fundraising campaign said that he was still unable to walk by himself two weeks after the collision. He’ll require a live-in physical therapist in order to regain his ability to walk and the independence that comes with it.

According to his GoFundMe page Yarber’s medical bills have already exceeded the Medicaid allowance and the government won’t pay for a live-in therapist. He has no immediate family to take care of him.

A person who drove their large metal vehicle illegally and with disregard for the safety of others did this.
(Photo: Friends of David Yarber)

Here’s more about Yarber from his friend LuAnne McCracken:

“I have known David for 30 plus years and thru [sic] the years I have gotten to know him pretty good. David is by far the most kindest and selfless person I have ever met. Among his independence he put him self thru [sic] college, held a job with Bonneville Power for over 30 years and has never asked anyone for a helping hand. David belongs to several organizations to help others in need and faithfully attends church. Please find it in your hearts to help David get back his independence like he had before he was struck by someone that was stupid enough to get behind the wheel while intoxicated and cause so much physical harm to another human being.”

The campaign hopes to raise $15,000. See GoFundMe.com if you are willing and able to donate.

— Jonathan Maus: (503) 706-8804, @jonathan_maus on Twitter and jonathan@bikeportland.org

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