One of our close friends Sam "Tynker" Whippo, age 19, recently suffered from a congenital condition that has left him paralyzed. Being a performer in America for many of us means that we have no insurance, and Sam is no exception. Fortunately the condition is operable and there is a chance for a good recovery. However this operation is very expensive and we would like to do everything we can to help share the load for Sam and his family. The Accidental Circus is taking donations for Sam and we have information where you can contact them directly.

Here are the letters from The Tynkers and others:

A rare medical condition has suddenly left Sam Tynker paralyzed from the waist down. Sam is a performer in the SCAdian and Ren Faire group called Clan Tynker. Friends and family are seeking donations to help defray mounting medical expenses.
A notice published by Clan Tynker a few days ago informed the Outlands populace of the misfortune:
...The day before Thanksgiving, Sam became completely paralyzed below the waist. He was rushed to ICU, and with a series of tests it was discovered that he had an arterial-vascular fistula, a rare [congenital] condition...which creates an abnormal blood flow in his spinal cord. The effect of this malformation of the arteries usually becomes apparent after the second decade of one's life.
On November 30th he had open back surgery; the neurosurgeon was hopeful that it was a success. Sam is currently in inpatient rehab and slowly learning to use his legs again. It is still not certain that he will be able to walk again, but he is showing signs of improvement.
He has asked that well-wishers, please not send flowers or gifts as he has a very small room. If anyone is inspired to do something to help him, any donation towards his hospital bill would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks to those who have already donated, and for all your thoughts and prayers.
"You may have seen Sam Tynker perform with his family at events like Estrella War or Pennsic, or maybe you have even gotten the chance to meet Sam on the field of battle. Either way, you know he is a man of great talent and greater spirit."
She says an effort is underway to collect funds to help with the expense of the operation and ongoing care. "It is unfortunate that such sad things happen around the holidays. If you find you have any coins in your pocket left after holiday shopping, please consider sending them to the Tynkers, as any amount will help offset the hospital bills."
Related Links:
ClanTynker (at) juno.com contact address for Clan Tynker

From Paolo - Update! Thu, 30 Dec 2004
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hey everyone, talked to Elijah today.
sam is kinda walking around with a walker, but still healing from surgery, so no way to tell how successful it totally was yet.
Elijah wanted me to tell everyone that if you have sent him an email, he's been really busy, not just with Sam, but now with the death of their father Austin "Raven" Whippo. he died on christmas eve of a heart attack. Elijah said it was quick and that he died in his bed. I don't know how many of you have actually met Raven, but to say that he was an interesting man would be a vast understatement. I've only met him a handful of times, but he was certainly a character and will be missed.
ok, enough bad news for one email, here's the address:

Sam Whippo
18 Wolf Rd. #B
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87508

Checks can be written directly to Sam Whippo.

I am going out to visit them on Jan 3rd to give them the donations and support I have received thus far.
Thanks again for everyone's support, Elijah can't say enough how much it means to him and his siblings that we've all rallied for them, he sends his appreciation out to everyone.
Paolo
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From Paolo - update Thurs. Jan 13th 2005

I have just left New Mexico and ended my visit with the Tynkers. Sam is now managing to walk with two canes for short distances. he can move his legs some and with help can stand up for short durations. Sam still does not have feeling in his legs right now and is still re-learning how to walk. He is determined to get back on his feet again and with everyones love and support he will be back up and performing again soon.

We are currently donating 100% of our cd sales to help ofset the rising medical bills.

We have also set up a Pay Pal Acct to accept online donations.

Wanna read more about the Tynkers? Check out some of these articles -
Pennsic.net - Clan Tynker Interview

http://www.motionmenu.com/clantynker/ - Tynker Contact Page

Please drop us a line! email us at [email protected]

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