Chester Motocross Rider Raises Funds for Experimental Surgery
TL;DR: Nic Hayes, a Chester motocross competitor paralyzed in a June 2023 accident, is raising $275,000 for experimental spinal surgery scheduled for later in 2026.
Quick facts
- Who: Nic Hayes, Chester motocross competitor
- What: Fundraising for experimental spinal cord surgery after paralyzing injury
- When: Accident June 25, 2023; surgery planned for later in 2026
- Where: Chester, Virginia
The story
Nic Hayes, a Chester resident who grew up competing in amateur motocross events across the East Coast, suffered a severe spinal cord injury on June 25, 2023. During a practice ride approximately one hour from his home, Hayes was thrown headfirst from his motorcycle and fractured his neck. He was airlifted to VCU Medical Center and has since been paralyzed from the shoulders down.
Nearly three years after the accident, Hayes remains paralyzed and relies on caregivers for daily activities. His parents, Jim and Diana Hayes, provide primary care including assistance with personal hygiene and meals. Hayes is father to two children, Ryan and Emerson.
Hayes is now raising $275,000 to fund an experimental Epidural Stimulator implant procedure scheduled for later in 2026. The surgery will be performed by surgeons in either Thailand or Mexico. According to Hayes, his doctor has indicated a "greater than 50% chance" of positive outcomes, with rehabilitation potentially requiring up to five years. Donations can be made through hayesstrong.com.
Hayes has expressed a modest but determined goal: "Just one lap. That is all I want. I can't let it beat me."
Key players
- Nic Hayes: Motocross competitor, accident survivor
- Jim Hayes: Father, primary caregiver
- Diana Hayes: Mother, primary caregiver
Key dates
- 2026 (later in year): Experimental Epidural Stimulator implant surgery scheduled
Why it matters: Hayes' story illustrates the financial burden facing injury survivors and their families when seeking experimental treatments not covered by standard insurance. His fundraising effort highlights the resilience of Chesterfield County residents facing life-altering circumstances.
Places
Development timeline
- 2023-06-25Motocross accident and spinal injury: Nic Hayes thrown from motorcycle during practice ride, sustained broken neck and paralysis from shoulders down, airlifted to VCU Medical Center [source]
- 2026 (later in year)Experimental surgery scheduled: Hayes plans to undergo Epidural Stimulator implant procedure in Thailand or Mexico with doctor-estimated greater than 50% success chance [source]
Related links
Read the original at WTVR CBS 6 Local →