07/27/2026
š One year ago today, we lost our friend, Phil. šŖ
Anyone who knew Phil remembers that unmistakable smile, his sense of humor, and yesā¦that famous one-finger salute. šš It was simply Phil, and itās exactly how Iāll always remember him.
When the accident happened, many of us assumed we had lost him because of the impact. The coroner later determined that Phil had suffered a major cardiac event well before impact.
That truth has stayed with me.
Iāve now witnessed two serious cardiac events involving friends in our sport. In one case, the warning signs were recognized before boarding, and that jumper survived. Phil wasnāt given that chance.
We meticulously inspect our parachutes, reserve systems, AADs, harnesses, and every piece of gear because we know our lives depend on them. Maybe itās time we give the same attention to the one piece of equipment we can never replaceāour hearts. ā¤ļø
If youāre over 40, have a family history of heart disease, or simply havenāt had a thorough physical in a while, please make the appointment. Talk with your physician about whether a cardiovascular evaluation is appropriate for you, including tests such as an ECG (EKG), an echocardiogram, a stress test, or other screening based on your individual risk factors.
Letās honor Phil by doing something that could save a life.
Not just by remembering his incredible smileā¦
Not just by remembering that mischievous middle fingerā¦
But by making sure weāre all still around to keep sharing the skies together.
Blue skies, Phil. We miss you every day. ššŖ
