Folly takes care of its own
Gene Mathes
By Lauren Dean
*Editor’s Note: We are sad to report that, after this article went to print in the Folly Current, Gene Mathes passed away on Tuesday, August 31. He will be greatly missed.
Folly Beach takes care of its own. That’s what makes Folly Folly. It’s not the beach or the laid-back bar and restaurant scene. It’s not surfboards and skateboards. It’s the people who live here and how they come together to help one another in times of need.
Gene Mathes needs us now, and Folly has come through for him. Gene was walking home from Center Street late at night on August 7 when he was struck from behind by a hit and run driver. He never saw what hit him and if he did, it’s not likely he’ll remember it. Our minds won’t less us remember stuff like that.
Another great product from Cincopa Send Files. Also read about Cincopa best wordpress plugins for your website.
He was just around the corner from home, somewhere between Huron and Indian on West Second Street. Since that night he has lain in a bed in the ICU at MUSC, where he has undergone exploratory surgery and dozens of tests and procedures.
“We are taking it day by day, hour by hour,” said Gene’s sister Michelle Mazyck, who didn’t leave his bedside for the first few days in ICU. “It was touch and go at that point,” she said. Doctors think Gene will spend two more weeks in the ICU and six-months in the hospital after that. Gene is a veteran so the VA will pick up most of his medical expenses, but not all of them.
Folly has rallied for Gene. Lance Howard, owner and chef of the Sunset Cay Yacht Club, held a benefit for Gene on August 28 that raised approximately $2,500. For a $20 donation, folks got all the Frogmore stew they could eat plus free wine and beer with all proceeds going to Gene.
Local musician Dan Clamp put together a group of musicians who donated not just their time, but also the proceeds from their tip jar. “Dan’s an awesome guy,” said Lance. “He stepped right up and organized the music.”
Folly residents opened their wallets for Gene, spending approximately $1,500 on items donated from residents and local businesses. “This is an unbelievable turnout,” said Jim Mazyck, Gene’s brother-in-law. “Michelle cried when we drove up and she saw so many people here. This was a great thing for Lance to do.”
“Our community is so small, but it is so generous,” Michelle said. “We are thankful for the love and caring everyone has shown us. I had no idea so many people knew Gene.”
Gene Mathes turned 60 on August 30. Well wishers signed a huge card at the benefit. Gene is still in a coma, so he couldn’t read the sentiments expressed there, but Michelle hopes that one day soon he will know how many people have cared so deeply for him.
A $1,000 reward has been offered for information to help find the person responsible for the accident. Maybe someone will have a guilty conscience and come forward and say “I did it.” It’s not too late to do the right thing.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can come by Michelle’s Salon & Spa at 103 East Cooper or drop a donation in one of the jars at local businesses. Checks should be made payable to Eugene Mathes.
