The following note is from Judy Garbutt, matriarch of the Garbutt rowing family. You can read more about Mike and his story here Cedar Creek crew coach returns to team just weeks after losing leg, and find information on the benefit here; tickets can be purchased at the door, contributions sent to "Let's Help Mike" c/o the Garbutts, 2 S. Rosborough Ave., Ventnor NJ 08406.
Ed-
Cedar Creek started crew this year. A young man by the name of Mike Simons was hired as an assistant coach to Matt Garbutt. Mike had just been discharged from the Army after one tour in Iraq And two tours in Afghanistan.
In 2007, Mike joined the Army as a forward observer for the Army Rangers. He went on three deployments; one to Iraq and two Afghanistan with the Rangers. He was based in Ft. Benning, GA, with the 3rd Ranger Battalion, and then transferred to the 82nd Airborne Ft. Bragg, NC, for his last year. He left the Army as a Sergeant with Airborne Wings and a Ranger Tab, an Army Commendation Medal, an Army Achievement Medal, and a Good Conduct medal.
While in high school he rowed for St. Augustine Prep in the lightweight program and being able to get back into rowing was a wonderful opportunity for him. It made the transition back into civilian life a much smoother process than he had hoped. unfortunately, after a practice - the second week on the water - he suffered an horrific motorcycle accident and he lost his right leg. With an unbelievably positive attitude and drive, he actually returned to coaching two weeks after the accident and coached on the land with land work-outs from his wheelchair. He would hop down from the chair and do sit-ups and push-ups with the team! He then began wearing waders and would get into a launch and get out on the water with his team. He has given this team an example of what desire, a positive attitude and motivation can achieve.
When Matt went to see him right after the accident he told him to tell the kids to "get a straw, suck it up and get back to work". The team made up t-shirts that say "Get a Straw" on the back.
Cedar Creek entered seven boats in the County Championships and got medals in six events.
To help with his costs and get him the very best prosthesis available the crew is starting the "Let's Help Mike Campaign". The first event is a Beef and Beer on June 2 at the Mays Landing Country Club. The Wounded Warriors are planning to ride for him that night.
Get back to me, Ed, if you need anymore info. This is such an exceptional young man, and he needs all the help we can give him.
Judy