What is your story?

Pictured from left: Mel, Cameron, Owen, Trevor & Seantae

Trevor (dad) and Seantae (mom) were rewarding their 14-year-old twins (Cameron and Owen) with a backpacking trip for getting great grades in school. Seantae’s best friend Mel was invited so that the boys could teach her how to fish in the backcountry. While they were driving on a two-lane highway, a vehicle passed a semi-truck and failed to see them. The vehicles hit head on at highway speeds. Between the 5 of them, their injuries covered almost an entire body. 3 of them were critical and they all faced a very long road of recovery. They were grateful for all the help they received throughout their whole journey - but always wished there were more resources available and help from people who really understood. Sandal Blue Foundation was born just one year after their accident, while still on their own recovery journeys. They can’t wait to help you!

To hear more about our story, watch the video below. (Trigger warning for sensitive viewers)

Why the weird name?

Sandal Blue Foundation may initially seem like an odd title for a non-profit. But when we were in a motor vehicle accident, there were more important things to attend to than introductions of names! The first responders quickly entered a ‘John Doe’ name into the system for Trevor, so they could begin his chart in the computer system. ‘Sandal Blue’ was Trevor’s trauma name and it remained that way for many days in the system and on his wristband. Everyone always asks if he had on blue sandals… but they were brown!

Can you explain your logo?

After a motor vehicle accident, everyone has their own peaks and valleys to deal with. We were involved in our accident on the way to go backpacking - and have noticed so many similarities between recovery and backpacking in the mountains. Each individual has their own unique set of challenges as they climb their peaks, taking it all one step at a time. And although everybody’s road looks different, and our peaks are at various levels, together we can reach the summit!