Former US Congressman Michael Grimm Left Paralyzed After Polo Accident

Michael Grimm, the former US congressman, has been left paralyzed from the chest down following a devastating fall from a horse during a polo tournament in September. According to Vincent Ignizio, a friend and former New York City council member, Grimm is currently undergoing treatment with the hopes of regaining mobility. Ignizio has launched a fundraising initiative to cover the substantial costs of Grimm's medical care, which are estimated to reach "millions of dollars."

Grimm, 54, who previously served Staten Island and parts of Brooklyn, resigned from Congress in 2015 shortly before his conviction for tax evasion. Despite the severity of his injuries, Ignizio emphasized the progress Grimm has made thanks to dedicated medical professionals, referencing the inspiring story of the late actor Christopher Reeve, who received rehabilitation at the same facility where Grimm is now being treated.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences on social media, extending thoughts and prayers to Grimm, particularly in light of the approaching Veteran’s Day. Grimm, a former Marine and FBI agent, was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2010. His legal troubles arose after a comprehensive federal investigation into his financial dealings, leading to charges of tax evasion in 2014 and an eight-month prison sentence the following year.