Kentucky National Guardsman paralyzed in wreck gets help from Radcliff restaurant
The owners of a Little Caesars Pizza in Radcliff are making a big contribution, and they're asking for the community's support to help a family in need.
“He's always there to help other people, and I think it's our time to help him,” said Penny Michalak.
The Michalak family is using their business to make a difference. They recently opened a Little Caesars on Kieta Way in Radcliff. On Monday, Dec. 12, all sales will go to the family of a Kentucky National Guardsman of nearly two decades and JCPS assistant principal Major John Rock.
“It's the community buying the pizza, putting warm pizza in their belly, and they're all helping. They're all helping Coach Rock,” said Mike Michalak.
In May, Rock was deployed in Texas with the Kentucky National Guard. He was outside exercising when he crossed an intersection and a driver hit him. His wife says the person behind the wheel ran a stop sign.
He suffered 13 broken ribs and a collarbone, a dislocated shoulder, damage to his intestines and hand and was left paralyzed.
“With them, their whole life was turned upside down,” said Penny Michalak.
In September, he returned home after 30 days in the hospital and three months in rehab. He's had six surgeries and is still paralyzed from the waist down, and tasks that once came easy are now a challenge.
“It was something as simple as, 'I need to get into my house. I need to be able to take a shower, I need to cook and just being able to be sufficient,'” said Mike Michalak.
To help with expenses, the Michalak family is giving all sales from their restaurant on Monday, Dec. 12, to the Rock family.
“Still, the family needs our help, needs the community's help, and I think we owe it to give back, especially to someone who has given so much,” said Penny Michalak.
They're hoping to serve a man who has given his life helping others.
“What better way to give back to a community than helping a community give back to one of its own,” said Mike Michalak.
Rock hopes to use the money to pay for home changes to help with mobility and a car. He’s hopeful one day he will walk again.