I can't believe I'm writing this story.

On July 4, 2026, my life changed in an instant.

I was traveling behind a tractor when it moved over toward the opposite side of the road. Thinking it was safe to pass, I began to do so. At that moment, the tractor suddenly turned right in front of me, and I collided with it.

An ambulance rushed me to the hospital, where I remained until July 8. During my hospital stay, I underwent surgery to stabilize my broken left tibia and fibula. Today, I will undergo another surgery on my left leg. I also suffered multiple cracked ribs, and my doctors have told me that my road to recovery will be a long one.

The love of my life is my family…my wonderful girlfriend, my eight children, two of whom still live at home, and my amazing eight grandchildren. They are my motivation to keep pushing forward every day.

I'm self-employed and wear two hats. One is as a professional umpire, where I love spending time with and encouraging young people through sports. My other business is in transportation, where I operate a fleet of vehicles that transport visitors during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The timing of this accident couldn't be worse. The Sturgis Rally begins in just a couple of weeks, and this is one of the busiest and most important times of the year for my business. Being unable to work means there is no income coming in while the bills continue to pile up.

Asking for help has never been easy for me, but today I truly need it.

The funds raised will help with medical expenses and everyday living expenses while I recover and work toward getting back on my feet.

If you are able to donate, share my story, or keep my family in your prayers, I would be sincerely grateful.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support during this difficult time.

Joe Zogg ❤️🙏🏍️