Jack's Recovery

As many of you know, our dear nephew, Jack Harris, suffered a traumatic spinal cord injury on June 11, 2021. He fractured his C6 vertebrae. After a grueling eight-hour surgery, neurosurgeons removed all the FX C6 vertebrae pieces through the front of his neck. The surgeons then added a titanium cage between C5-C7 vertebrae which replaced his shattered C6 and added a plate connecting the C5 to C7. Jack has spent many weeks in ICU at Children's Hospital in St. Louis, followed by close care with physical and occupational therapy. Jack is working to gain sensation and movement in his hands, core, legs, and feet. He will continue to need long term and intermediate rehab and care. The prognosis and time frame are all unknown. One day at a time.

Jack is a strong and determined kid. While it may take some time, we are very optimistic he will recover. The community which surrounds him is amazing and full of faith, which has been huge for him. He will begin the next phase of his recovery in Chicago at the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. This is the best place for Jack both physically and emotionally. As you may realize, being 5 hours from home will be a challenge for the whole family.

On behalf of our nephew, Josh, Toni and I would like to take some of the burden off his parents, John and Chris, and start a Go Fund Me account. The emotional, financial, logistical, and medical issues are ever present. While many have already shared gifts, meals, support, hugs and prayers, this would help with the lodging, fuel, and any other expenses that should arise during this time away from his home, family, and friends. Please continue to pray for Jack and his entire family. God bless you!

Josh, Toni, and Karena