Entries by Tony

Ian Wickramasekera

Life in Aurora was good for 50-year-old Ian Wickramasekera. He spent his days teaching at Naropa University in Boulder, his nights going out dancing, and filled his spare time with long-distance running. But then, Ian stopped feeling like himself. For a few weeks, he spiked high fevers and experienced delirium, body aches, shortness of breath, […]

Gary Sampson

Gary Sampson is one of those people you can’t help but admire. The self-described “professional volunteer” has made a living through a life of service. His career includes work as a police officer, part of the National Red Cross, and a Victim Witness Director at the District Attorney’s office. In retirement, Gary worked with the […]

Margaret Matthews

Margaret Matthews, 72, enjoys a quiet, peaceful, retired life with her husband of 50 years, Jim. Together, they live in Windsor, CO, and spent the past 38 years caring for their family. For the past 16 years, Margaret has enjoyed participating in a ladies’ investment group. Together, the couple enjoys going to conditioning class. They […]

James Heaberlin

James Heaberlin rarely ever gets sick. The 82-year-old is a living testament to the benefits of an active lifestyle. James, who has lived in Fort Collins for the past 40 years, and has always been healthy. He enjoys daily three-mile walks with his dog and spending time with his family, including his wife, six children, […]

Edward Aitken

Married for 51 years with two sons and three grandchildren, Edward Aitken has lived a life of service. He has served as the state commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Colorado, Second Vice President of the United Veterans Coalition, and manager of the Associated Veterans of Loveland. His passion in life — if […]

Anne Sweet

Anne Sweet, 70, was used to her independent lifestyle. Anne lived alone but enjoyed the company of her friends, sister, nieces, and nephews. She spent her free time gardening and looking for flowers and plants at local nurseries. One March day, Anne’s life changed forever. On the way home from a party at her sister’s […]

Leroy Rady

Back in 2013, there was a Big Thompson River flood in Drake, CO. That is where Leroy Rady, 87, and his spouse, Marge, have lived for the past 20 years. Since the flood, Leroy has been rebuilding his home and fixing up the yard. He and Marge are very active and enjoy spending time with […]

Michael Figal

Michael was so excited about his big 60th birthday party at his house. But ten minutes before the party he collapsed on the floor. Brought to the acute care hospital, Michael was diagnosed with acute basilar thrombosis. The doctors administered tPA and Michael had a thrombectomy performed. Prior to his hospitalization, Michael lived an active […]

Rick Ybarra

Strength is more than a physical trait according to Rick Ybarra. When faced with the unexpected amputation of his right leg, Rick learned it was a strong mind that allowed him to get back to his life. Rick was working at a recycling center when a 27,000 pound container dropped on his legs. He was […]

Marty Buckendorf

The day started out as a normal day for Martin “Marty” Buckendorf. Marty, 65, was doing what he loved — working on cars in his garage — when he tripped over some tools and fell. Marty had difficulty moving his left arm and leg and was unable to get up. He called his spouse, but […]