"The Western New Yorker" Tote Bag

On March 21st, 2024, Luke Stempuzis and some of his friends traveled to Buffalo from Cleveland for the Excision Nexus concert - a night filled with joy, music, and unforgettable memories.

After the show, they headed back to their Airbnb in separate rideshares. Tragically, one of the vehicles carrying Luke was struck by a reckless driver speeding at more than double the limit.

The impact forever changed many lives. One of Luke's friends lost her life that night as did the rideshare driver. Luke survived, but suffered a severe diffuse axonal traumatic brain injury as well as numerous other serious injuries. Once Luke was stable, he was transported back to Ohio via a medical jet. He spent a couple of months in a coma fighting for his life, another several months in and out of the hospital with complications from his injuries, requiring life-saving surgeries, followed by a couple of months in inpatient rehabilitation.

Although Luke pulled through, his injuries have profoundly affected his life quality. Each day since has been a testament to his resilience and the supernatural that sustains us as he faces an incredibly challenging, painful, and uncertain recovery. His journey is far from over, but he continues to fight with courage and determination. Luke is now living at home but requires 24/7 care, which is provided by his older sister, twin brother, and sister-in-law. Two of them have left their jobs to support the level of care required and to continue his rehabilitation at home.

Please consider a purchase or donation to the online fundraiser to support Luke and his family.

Carl Cordes is an artist from East Aurora, NY, currently residing in Amherst with his beautiful wife Kara. In addition to artwork, Carl teaches business courses for West Seneca Schools and runs a vintage sports & memorabilia business.

Follow Carl on Instagram!

instagram.com/carlcordesart

instagram.com/carlslocker