On January 25, 2007, at the corner of Venice Blvd. and Veteran Ave. in Los Angeles, Mark Huddleston tried to help a female friend who was being accosted by a man. When the man pulled out a gun Mark instinctively moved inbetween the man and his friend. Mark was shot in the arm and abdomen.

Three individuals then robbed both Mark and his friend. He spent almost two weeks in the UCLA Medical Center undergoing surgery and intensive care. His left arm is broken and has been set and his intestines sown back together as they were severely damaged. His companion sustained minor injuries and is now recovering, thankfully.

February 7th Mark was released from the hospital and is currently at home. He will undergo physical therapy for 6 months, or until he is deemed fully recovered. The police have been unable to track the criminals who perpetrated this crime, although we are hopeful they will.

Unfortunately, Mark was between jobs and did not have health insurance. Due to this ill-fated incident, he has been rendered practically immobile, unable to work, and incapable of meeting his monthly bills, let alone a climbing medical debt. Mark has no significant savings or other funds to tap for this monetary crisis. He is applying to several victims’ advocacy groups for any compensation they may be able to give him. He is relying on the help of his family, who are doing everything they can for him, but soon this will not be enough.

We are hoping to raise a sizable sum, taking into account the enormous amount of money he will owe the UCLA Medical Center, doctors for follow-up appointments, physical therapists, and any subsequent complications that arise. Donations help him stay on his feet through this ordeal.

Thank you for your time.

Please feel free to contact Mark through his photography site at: www.huddlestonphoto.com