Ben Gravy has built an unlikely career for himself in surfing. He’s done that by being himself. He’s done that by doing interesting things that people want to see. He’s done that with the help of a group of his friends, and now one of them needs help. His longtime filmer/good friend Zayn Makki recently suffered a life-changing injury after diving off a dock into shallow water.
“On the weekend of April 24th, our dear friend Zayn Makki — known to many as ‘Makki Films‘ — was involved in a devastating accident that has changed his life in an instant,” a Gofundme campaign reads. “While spending time by the water, Zayn dove off a dock, not realizing the water below was far too shallow. The impact caused a severe spinal injury. Zayn suffered a C7 burst fracture vertebra, which led to significant trauma to his spinal cord, including deep bruising. As a result of these injuries, he currently has no feeling or ability to move anything below his chest. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition and required immediate, intensive medical care. Since then, Zayn has begun a long and uncertain journey toward recovery.”
Spinal cord injuries are extraordinarily difficult to deal with. Aside from the obvious physical journey that comes with paralysis, the mental toll on both the victim and everyone in their lives is devastating. It truly does take a village, and luckily, Makki has a committed village.
“Zayn is — and will always be — the life of the party,” the campaign continues. “His smile and handsome good looks lights up a room whenever he’s present. He’s built friendships not only in his local community, but all over the world. Through Makki Films, Zayn has made a lasting, positive impact on the surf community. Now, it’s our time to be there for him.”
Life after a spinal cord injury is brutal — especially in the first few months. Rehab can feel impossible. The amount of change in a person’s life must feel completely overwhelming. My wife’s cousin and my very good friend suffered the same injury as Makki a few years ago, and he’s still adjusting. He is adjusting, though, but it is a slow process and I’m proud of every proverbial step he takes forward.
“The C6 and C7 vertebrae, along with the C8 nerve root, form the lower portion of the cervical spine near the base of the neck,” writes Spinalcord.com. “Damage at these levels may limit movement and sensation in the arms, wrists, hands, trunk, and legs, depending on severity. Like all spinal cord injuries, they are classified as either complete or incomplete, with outcomes shaped by the extent of damage, timeliness of treatment, and ongoing rehabilitation.”
People like Jesse Billauer are shining examples of what life can look like after a spinal cord injury, but it’s one of the hardest roads to head down.
“The road ahead will include extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and major life adjustments,” Makki’s campaign reads. “The financial burden of these expenses is overwhelming, and that’s why we’re coming together as a community to support him. Any contribution, no matter the amount, will go directly toward Zayn’s medical care, rehabilitation, and support during this incredibly difficult time. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean the world to us. Thank you for keeping Zayn in your thoughts and for helping him through this incredibly difficult journey.”
