On February 15th, Jack was brutally assaulted by another truck driver at a truck stop in Cochise County, Arizona. In a harrowing 911 call recording, Jack’s family learned that he was pursued into his truck cab by a still-unidentified suspect who struck him multiple times. Jack suffered extensive brain injuries and was airlifted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tucson, Arizona. Doctors were able to save his life, but he remains in an unconscious state and continues to rely on life support. In a KVOA news report, Dr. Francis Ali-Osman of St. Joseph’s hospital described Jack’s injuries as “it’s as severe as you can get as far as brain injuries”.

This incident left Jack’s family broken and distraught. In an interview with KVOA, Jianhua, who goes by Jennifer, Jack’s wife of over 30 years, said that it felt like "my sky is going down (and) my world is nothing now”. Overnight, Jack’s wife and 3 sons lost the support of a loving husband and a caring father who gave everything for his family. Justin, who is the middle son of Jack and Jennifer, had just begun his Navy training to become a serviceman for the United States military. His family was looking forward to attending his graduation from training camp in late Spring. It was only less than a month into Justin’s training when he got the shocking call that his father was in critical condition. Justin was allowed to step away briefly to visit his father in Tucson before continuing his training, and he continues to work towards becoming a member of the United States Navy.

Unfortunately, to this day, there has been no arrest made in connection with the assault. Jack’s family is still largely responsible for the majority of medical costs associated with his surgery and treatment. In the wake of the incident, Jennifer was also forced to put her job on hold to care for her husband at the hospital, creating more financial instability for her family. There are many other costs that Jack’s family will be responsible for, including medical transportation and airfare from their home state of Georgia to Tucson. While they still hold out hope for an improvement in Jack’s condition, the recovery process for Jack and his family will be arduous both emotionally and financially.

All donations will go towards helping Jack’s family cover his hospital expenses and costs relating to transport and airfare. Any amount, no matter big or small, is greatly appreciated. Even if you are unable to donate, thank you for keeping Jack and his family in your thoughts and prayers. If possible, please share their fundraiser so that more kind-hearted people can hear about Jack’s story. Thank you for taking the time to read this story.