In brief
Michael Grimm, 54, a former congressman, is currently undergoing treatment after sustaining paralysis from the chest down due to a polo accident in September. Friends and supporters are rallying to fund his rehabilitation, which is expected to be costly, as he aims to regain mobility.
Grimm was thrown from a horse during a polo tournament, resulting in life-altering injuries that have left him paralyzed. His friend and former New York City council member, Vincent Ignizio, confirmed the incident and has launched a fundraising campaign to assist with Grimm’s extensive medical expenses. Ignizio described the event as a "tragic accident" and noted that Grimm is receiving care at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey, an establishment known for rehabilitating individuals with spinal cord injuries—most notably, actor Christopher Reeve after his own accident in 1995.Despite his grave condition, Ignizio highlighted that Grimm has exhibited resilience and determination, stating on the fundraising page that through “the grace of God and the amazing medical teams,” he has managed to survive. The efforts to facilitate his recovery are reportedly expected to amount to millions of dollars. Ignizio asserted that Grimm's ultimate aspiration is to walk again.New York City Mayor Eric Adams publicly extended his condolences and support for Grimm by expressing his "thoughts and prayers." As the city marks Veterans Day, the Mayor recognized Grimm’s service as a Marine veteran, wishing him a swift and complete recovery. Grimm represented Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn in the House of Representatives from 2010 until his resignation in 2015, following a federal conviction for tax evasion. The former politician had been sentenced to eight months in prison after investigations revealed he under-reported wages and revenues in an effort to evade taxes.
