Jared's Marathon

October 2nd, 2019, a night that felt much like any other ordinary Wednesday evening turned into a night that Jared’s family and close friends will always remember and perpetually thank God for. As the 10:00 o’clock news rattled off a developing story pertaining to a man in critical condition due to a gunshot wound, most of us watching felt some kind of sympathy, yet brushed it off shortly after, as it could not possibly be someone close to us, let alone someone we love. This is a typical response that many of us share... until that one time an unprecedented event hits home and it is in-fact someone near and dear to your heart and that of many, many others. 

That someone is Jared Sedlacek. A man that means the world to so many and a man that is his families world. If you know Jared, then you know that he is one of the most selfless, kind hearted, genuine and loyal people you will ever run into. He is not only an amazing person with a loving heart and beautiful soul, he is a blessing to those around him and always seems to touch the lives of anyone who crosses his path. The personality and character of Jared can best be described as a faithful, God fearing man that any woman would be honored to call hers, a man any parent would want their son to grow into, a brother every sibling needs, a father that shows unconditional love and support to his children and a loyal friend who would give the shirt off his back or last dollar in his pocket to help another. 

Jared shared no connection or relation to the shooter and was a true victim of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Jared was struck by a stray bullet in his lower back. An ambulance rushed him to the hospital where shortly after he underwent surgery due to the severity and criticality of his injuries. The bullet was logged near his spinal cord. During surgery, doctors were able to clear the wound of bone fragment, repair the dura and also the spinal fluid leak. At this time, the doctors are unsure of the extent of damages caused to Jared’s spinal cord. Currently, he is unable to move his leg without assistance. Doctors are hopeful that he will regain strength and movement as he does have feeling in his left leg.  Jared will remain in the ICU for at least another 24 hours. His recovery will be a long battle. The doctors believe, pending no complications, he will be released from the hospital and moved to an inpatient rehab facility. We know Jared is a fighter and we have faith that he will get through this with the love and support of those around him.

It is now time that we all come together and return the love, help and support that Jared so willingly and freely gives to those in his life. Jared’s healing process will be a marathon, yet we are for certain that God will carry him and his family through this hardship. Before this tragic event occurred, Jared was working two jobs to support and provide for his family and will be out of work for an extended period of time. The family is asking for prayers and donations and is beyond grateful for any amount given. Even the smallest bit of support is greatly appreciated and will help Jared and his family through this challenging, tuff time. 

Life can change in the blink of an eye. Jared’s story is a constant reminder to each and everyone of us to count our blessings and that we are not invincible or immune to tragedies and or life changing events. Thank you to all of you who have taken the time to read Jared’s story, to those who are praying for Jared and to those of you who have made a contribution. 

“The greatest good is the good we do for one another”. Mother Theresa