The music will play,  friends will get together and food will be shared. And behind every conversation Saturday afternoon at CR Sports Bar in Leesburg will be one single purpose: helping one of their own.

A benefit for Robert “Rob” Runkles is set for 1pm today, bringing together family, friends, fellow motorcycle enthusiasts and members of the community determined to help a man whose life changed forever just weeks ago.

For those who know Rob, the support comes as no surprise.

The 38-year-old has spent the past 25 years caring for animals as a veterinary technician, working his way up to lead veterinary technician at Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Sumter County. Whether comforting worried pet owners or caring for their beloved companions, helping others has simply been part of who he is.

Now, it’s his turn to receive that same compassion.

On July 7, Rob was riding his motorcycle to work when he was seriously injured in a crash at the intersection of U.S. Highway 301 and State Road 466 in Oxford, according to his brother-in-law, Nathan Irwin.

He was airlifted to the hospital, where doctors fought to save his severely injured left leg. After multiple surgeries and a transfer to another hospital for specialized care, surgeons made the difficult decision to amputate his leg below the knee. He also suffered serious injuries to his right arm and hand and faces additional surgeries before he can be fitted for a prosthetic.

While the physical recovery will take months, Irwin said the emotional recovery may take even longer.

“It’s a mental struggle,” he says. “He’s 38 years old, kind of in his prime, raising four kids. It hit him hard. Looking down and knowing your leg is gone and having to have somebody help you use the bathroom or take a shower; that’s hard.”

Rob and his partner, Melissa Poppell, are raising four children, ages 17, 12, 11 and 5. As the family’s primary provider, Rob now faces months away from work while recovering. Melissa has stepped away from her job to care for him full time, leaving the family to navigate reduced income alongside mounting medical expenses and home modifications needed to accommodate his new reality.

The family is working to make their home wheelchair accessible, remodeling the bathroom, removing barriers inside the house and preparing for the day Rob can begin learning to use a prosthetic.

Through it all, they haven’t faced the journey alone.

“There are truly no words to express how grateful we are for the incredible love and support we’ve received during this difficult time,” Melissa says in a statement. “Every donation to the GoFundMe, every prayer, every kind message and every word of encouragement has helped carry us through moments we never imagined we’d face.”

She says the generosity of friends, family and strangers alike has helped ease not only the financial burden but also the emotional weight of the past several weeks.

“Watching Rob endure so much has been heartbreaking, but knowing we have such an amazing community standing beside us has given us strength and hope,” she says. “Please continue to keep Rob in your prayers as he takes the next steps toward healing.”

Irwin says family members have rallied around the couple, bringing meals, helping care for the children and pitching in wherever needed. They’ve also reached out to local amputee support groups, hoping to connect Rob with others who understand the challenges that lie ahead.

“It’s kind of a day-by-day situation,” Nathan says. “Some days he’s doing okay, and some days he just wants to be alone.”

Saturday’s fundraiser at CR Sports Bar, 9945 County Road 44 in Leesburg, will feature live music by Steel Kickin’ from 2-6pm. Organizers are also encouraging guests to bring a dish to share as the community gathers to support Rob and Melissa.

For those unable to attend, a GoFundMe has been established to help cover medical expenses, health insurance costs, home renovations and other needs as Rob continues his recovery.

Irwin said the family is also seeking volunteers or donated materials to assist with accessibility renovations inside the home.

As the road ahead unfolds, those closest to Rob hope he knows he isn’t traveling it alone.

“We are forever grateful for each and every one of you,” Melissa says. “Thank you for believing in us and reminding us that we are not facing this alone.”

To contribute to the GoFundMe for Rob and his family, visit https://gofund.me/6dcec1ce8.

Photos provided by: Nathan Irwin