My name is Terrence Graves and I am the President of Emerald Empire Branch 916 (we represent letter carriers in Eugene, Springfield, Sweet Home, Cottage Grove, Junction City, Bend, Prineville, Redmond, and Madras, Oregon.)

One of our members (Rod Jester) is fighting for his life in a North Carolina hospital after being shot in the torso during an attempted murder / home invasion.

Rod is a hero, an Air Force Veteran, and retired letter carrier.

On July 13, 2024 at 3:00 AM, a man who was unknown to Rod pounded on the front door.  When Rod opened the door, the man shot Rod in the torso.  Rod returned fire, killing the man.

The attacker was intent on killing his X-Wife, who lived next door.  The attacker simply got the wrong house and shot Rod.

By defending himself and killing the attacker, Rod directly saved the lives of his neighbor (Rhonda) and her husband.

Rod is fighting for his life after two major surgeries.

Although Rod has insurance to cover most of the hospital bills, his portion (after weeks in ICU) are expected to be tens of thousands of dollars.

Rod is a retired letter carrier out of Eugene Oregon, currently living in New Hanover, North Carolina.  

I have known Rod on a personal level for fifteen years.  Rod is the type of guy that lights up a room by his smile and charm.

Please make a donation if you are able.  

Rod and his lovely wife Val did not request financial assistance, but given that the New Hanover Sherifs investigating deputy was convinced that Rod saved at least two lives that night, I think that Rod and Val deserve help paying for these massive medical bills.

Thank you very much!

Terrence Graves

541-606-0480