Features

A Berkeley plumbing contractor who hit hard times recently is now finding himself surrounded by friends. Greg Ticehurst, a Berkeley resident of 14 years, was involved in a motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed in late September.  

Ticehurst had been in the process of remodeling his home when the accident occurred and was unable to complete the project. Now, a group calling themselves “Friends of Greg” is determined to finish the job for him. 

The group, organized by longtime friend Gregory Sieben of Innovation Builders in Emeryville, is composed of friends, acquaintances, and other volunteers. Currently, said Sieben, there are about nine volunteers per weekend working on Ticehurst’s house. Local companies and individuals have donated money and materials for the project, and Sieben expects the remodel to be completed by Dec. 1. 

Many “Friends of Greg” know Ticehurst from the contracting industry. But Sieben said he is struck by the fact that many of the volunteers and donors are total strangers. He attributed the community’s generosity to karma. 

“Greg is a really giving person and has always helped people himself. He’s the type of guy who inspires this kind of giving in others,” said Sieben. 

Ticehurst was not able to comment on the effort, due to medical conditions from the accident. 

Donations can be made care of Innovation Builders at 1467 Park Avenue, Emeryville, CA 94608. Checks should be addressed to “Friends of Greg.” 

– Melissa McRobbie