We want to tell you about our friend, Dorian Comeau

As a co-owner of a young automotive-performance shop, Dorian has shown uncommon generosity and hardworking professionalism. His years of hands-on experience and an undying love for all things racing had made him an industry go-to-guy for supercharging and performance, with dozens of articles in top automotive trade magazines. His reputation for being selflessly devoted to helping others is known throughout the local auto-racing community.

On May 14, 2010 Dorian was in a tragic accident. He sustained major injuries; including skull fractures, a broken neck and severe spinal cord damage. After weeks in the hospital and multiple surgeries, Dorian beat the odds and fought to pull through--unfortunately, his injuries have left him paralyzed from the neck down.

Dorian moved to Phoenix, Arizona with his family, where he proved to be the same remarkable person we have all come to know and love. He managed to stay emotionally strong and surprised us everyday with his awe-inspiring spirit and his enduring strength to persevere.

A “Pray for Dorian” page was created on Facebook soon after his injury and thousands responded; from friends and family to hundreds of fans from the automotive racing community that he has embraced most of his life. He was deeply touched by the response and is overwhelmingly grateful to all supporters.

Unfortunately, Dorian was recently re-admitted to the hospital for complications resulting from his injuries, and on Thursday, May 19, 2011, Dorian passed away peacefully after a year-long struggle.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

We have planned a second annual “Drive to Survive” fund raiser, to help Dorian’s family manage the many expenses that still exist even after his passing. As his friends and colleagues, we believe raising money to help pay for some of these expenses is the least we can do.

Dorian’s fund has been established with the Aftermarket Foundation, which assists individuals and families of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry that have fallen on hard times due to an unexpected death, catastrophic illness or financial hardship. All contributions are administered for injury-related expenses only

This year the Drive to Survive event will be a Poker Run where “players” will compete against each other in a hand of Poker at various stops across the greater Kansas City area. Check out the Event page for more information.