Former New York Representative Michael Grimm left paralyzed after serious horseback riding accident
Michael Grimm’s Supplemental Needs Trust has launched a GoFundMe campaign with a $2.5 million target to assist him in walking again.
Michael Grimm, a former U.S. Representative from New York, has been left paralyzed from the chest down due to a “devastating” horseback riding accident that occurred in September, as reported by a fundraising initiative set up by his trust.
The 54-year-old, who served in Congress from 2011 to 2015, is currently recovering after being thrown off a horse in September 2024, according to a GoFundMe page started by his Supplemental Needs Trust.
The GoFundMe states, “He has faced an unimaginable situation, but with the help of God and the incredible medical teams, Mr. Grimm has managed to survive this ordeal.”
Grimm is undergoing treatment in hopes of walking again, which is expected to “cost millions.” The fundraising campaign has so far gathered over $100,000 towards its $2.5 million goal.
The fundraising page appeals by saying, “For a man who has devoted his life to helping others, we now kindly ask for your generous support.”
YSL News attempted to reach Grimm’s representatives on Monday but did not receive a reply.
Who is Michael Grimm?
Grimm was chosen to represent Congress in 2011, thanks to endorsements from previous New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former U.S. Representative Guy Molinari. He later resigned from Congress after pleading guilty to tax evasion in a federal court in New York.
The former congressman accepted responsibility for his tax irregularities, which included failing to accurately report revenue, just two months after his reelection in December 2014. Following his sentencing, he turned himself in on September 22, 2015, and spent seven months in prison.
After his release, Grimm became a contributor for Newsmax, a conservative news outlet. In September, Newsmax anchor Greg Kelly reported that Grimm had suffered a neck injury requiring surgery and was admitted to an undisclosed hospital in Westchester County, New York.
Vinny Ignizio, a former New York City councilman, shared news of Grimm’s accident and the GoFundMe on Facebook.
Ignizio wrote in his post, “Our friend and former Congressman Michael Grimm experienced a tragic accident that has left him paralyzed. He needs support to cover the significant costs not covered by insurance for his long recovery. Your prayers and contributions would mean a lot to him.”