Steve Vihel has lived in Tucson on and off for the last several years. Despite struggling with a familial heart condition, Steve has been long active in biking, ultimate frisbee, and the local community. His condition worsened this past August, and on October 1st, Steve received a total artificial heart. He currently remains a patient at University Medical Center where he awaits a full heart transplant.
Last year, Steve founded There and Back Bicycles, a commuter-focused bike shop that earned Steve fans and friends among many Tucson cyclists. The shop remains open on a limited schedule while Steve recovers.
heartforsteve.org is an effort to reduce the financial hurdles Steve faces as a result of his illness. Please explore the site and consider donating and joining us at our various events to help support Steve!
Sadly, Steve passed away on December 1, 2011. Since then, tributes have been published in local blogs and newspapers, and his obituary has been made available at legacy.com.
Donations are being gratefully accepted to help Steve's family pay for his medical and memorial expenses:
- Online donations can be made via PayPal.
- Checks or money orders can be made payable to a traditional bank account that has been set up on Steve's behalf. Please email heartforsteve@gmail.com for details.
Thank you for your continued support for Steve and his family.
Click here for more information on memorial events.