Popular Christian Radio Show Host in Critical Condition After Motorcycle Accident
Christian talk radio host and former Major League pitcher Frank Pastore remains in a coma and in critical condition at a Los Angeles County hospital after a motorcycle crash earlier this week, according to family members talking to a local news reporter on Wednesday.
Pastore, 55, who is the host of "The Intersection of Faith and Reason" daily show on radio station KKLA in Glendale, Calif., was seriously injured on Monday evening in Duarte when his motorcycle was struck in the freeway carpool lane by a car driven by a Glendora woman, said California Highway Patrol officials, as reported by the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.
"Right now, he's still in critical condition and we're remaining hopeful for a good outcome. It's such a fresh injury that we're still not sure. It's a roller coaster," his wife, Gina Pastore, told the Tribune. "He's a man of strong faith. He's prepared to go be with the Lord if that's what God desires."
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She added, "My faith is unshaken. I'm obviously very upset by what's happened to my husband, but my faith is as strong as it ever was."
The CHP reported that after being hit by the swerving car for unknown reasons, Pastore was thrown from the motorcycle and struck the center divider, suffering major head injuries. He was flown to the hospital by helicopter. The investigation was ongoing by officers from the CHP, according to the Tribune.
Many Christian leaders, radio show listeners, and fans have been expressing their support for Pastore and his family by way of the Internet and calls to the station. Pastore was also a popular speaker at Christian conferences.
"This was an unexpected hit. Frank is a larger than life guy whose personal journey of salvation, redemption, and transformation resonates deeply to tens of thousands on a daily basis," wrote Every Man Ministries founder Kenny Luck in an email to The Christian Post. "He is an unapologetic yet tender warrior who lies down his life for God and people – especially his family. So many people trust his integrity and clarity on so many topics, including me.
"I had to catch my breath when I heard the news and I entered an emotional fog which has yet to clear. So many are praying for Frank right at this moment. Trust me, God is getting an earful about my beloved friend right now. It's because we love him and are collectively holding our breath because a great man stands at the great divide."
Movie producer and author Mark Joseph has been a guest on Pastore's radio show often.
"Frank is a great broadcaster and a very smart guy and I always enjoy being on his show. He's also a fighter and he's in the fight of his life right now. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his wife Gina," Joseph told CP.
Pastore was drafted out of Damien High School in La Verne, Calif., by the Cincinnati Reds in the second round of the draft in 1975, according to the Los Angeles Times. He had a 45-57 record during his seven seasons with the Reds (1979-85) and retired after playing for the Minnesota Twins in 1986.
Part of a statement on the KKLA radio station reads: "Thank you for all of your support and prayers during this time. We ask that you keep him and his family in your prayers through the holiday weekend.
If you would like to send Frank and his family best wishes, cards can be sent to:
P.O. Box 29023, Glendale, CA 91209.
