From Caring for Others to Needing Care – Help Jordan Recover

Hi, my name is Jordan O’Connor. I’m a second-year full-time nursing student at California State University, East Bay, and for the past five years, I’ve worked as a Clinical Medical Assistant. Outside of my studies and work, I’m a passionate fitness enthusiast who loves spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, biking, running, or kayaking.

On April 4th, 2025, while snowboarding at Sierra-at-Tahoe, I was involved in a serious accident. What I initially thought was a minor fall quickly turned into something much more serious. The ski resort’s first aid team assisted me off the mountain and recommended immediate medical attention due to the severity of my pain. I was taken by ambulance to Barton Hospital, where X-rays revealed that I had suffered a complicated fracture to my left hip.

A surgical orthopedic fellow explained that the nature of the fracture was severe, and that if it wasn’t repaired with precision, I could face a total hip replacement. I was then transferred to Renown Hospital in Reno, Nevada, to be treated by an orthopedic trauma surgeon. The very next morning, on April 5th, I underwent Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) surgery.

The road to recovery is long and demanding. For the next six weeks, I must remain completely non-weight-bearing on my left leg. This time is critical—not only for healing, but also to minimize the risk of complications like avascular necrosis, which could lead to the loss of blood flow to the hip and the need for a full replacement. As someone who thrives on movement and activity, this has been a heartbreaking change to navigate.

As a full-time student working part-time and relying on student loans, this unexpected medical emergency has placed a huge financial strain on me. Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket medical costs are significant. On top of that, I’m now unable to work for the foreseeable future due to my limited mobility.

That’s why I’m reaching out for help.

The funds raised through this GoFundMe will go toward:

Covering my out-of-pocket medical expenses

Assisting with living expenses during my recovery while I’m unable to work

Any support—whether through a donation or sharing my story—means more to me than I can express. Thank you for reading, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and support during this incredibly difficult time.

With gratitude,

Jordan O’Connor