October 21sr @ 12:34p.m., my life changed forever. I received a call from my son's girlfriend that they had been shot. After going through all kinds of emotions, panic and reality set in. How could this happen when they were on their way to a tailgate and fun day if watching the Jags play? After walking back to the car to put her purse up, shots rang out and they, along with 4 others were hit. Jalen was shot 5 times, 3 in the shoulder,  1 in the bicep, and one in the pelvis. Wow, the pelvis ; the shot that changed it all. You see that shot severed the carotid artery in his leg, resulting in having a through the knee amputation. When I arrived at Shands, my baby was in surgery fighting for his life. He coded 3 times,. Through prayer, and 10 surgeries in 8 days, we left ICU. We transitioned to Brooks Rehabilitation on day 20, and through the grace of GOD, we were able to come home to spend Thanksgiving with our family. Now that we are home, the real work is beginning. I will need a van to transport Jalen around. I love my son and will ensure he lives a productive life and is able to take care of his son.