Help Jake on his fight to recover

On behalf of Jake Walters, a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and UA Local 32 member, we are reaching out to anyone who can lend assistance during this challenging time. Jake resides in Bellevue, Washington, but has been working and temporarily living in Kansas City on a job site with his company, Hermanson Mechanical.

On Saturday morning, April 13th, Jake experienced what we call a “wake-up stroke.” He went to bed on Friday night in his usual state of health, only to wake up at 4 a.m. paralyzed on the left side of his body, from his face down to his toes. His speech was severely slurred, and he found himself alone and frightened. By some miracle, Jake managed to reach his phone and call recent numbers. Thankfully, a union brother answered and, despite the difficulty in understanding Jake’s speech, recognized that something was terribly wrong. He rushed to Jake’s house and called 911 immediately.

Jake was taken to a Kansas hospital, where he was diagnosed with a Significant stroke in the pons—a critical structure in the brainstem responsible for blood pressure regulation, breathing, balance, coordination, and equilibrium. This type of stroke is exceptionally rare, especially in a 32-year-old male. Even more concerning, the medical team has yet to identify a specific cause. No blood clots were found, and nothing in Jake’s system could explain this sudden and devastating emergency.

For 10 Days, Jake remained in the hospital, undergoing additional tests and beginning physical and speech therapy to regain his functions. He has since been transferred to a long-term rehab center specializing in stroke patients. Unfortunately, Jake is not yet medically cleared to travel home.

The road to recovery is long and challenging. While the prognosis for full recovery is poor, Jake’s determination and resilience are unwavering. Also, Jake Doesn't fit the mold of a normal severe stroke patient and he's determined to write his own story through hard work and determination. Unlike many stroke patients, he is breathing on his own and does not require blood pressure support medications. Each day, Jake gives his all to improve.

However, the reality of mounting bills is setting in. Jake’s wife, Taylor, has taken leave from work to be by his side. With Jake unable to work for the foreseeable future (if ever), financial strain is accumulating both at home and for medical expenses. We are grateful for the kindness shown by those who have already stepped up, including contributions from Jake’s colleagues at the Kansas job site, Local Union 32, and Hermanson—the company he worked for.

Yet, the journey ahead remains daunting. Our goal is to alleviate Jake’s financial worries, allowing him to focus solely on his recovery. As the primary provider, Jake deserves the best possible care without the added stress of mounting bills.

How You Can Help:

Donate: Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. Every dollar counts toward Jake’s recovery and ongoing medical needs.

Spread the Word: Share Jake’s story with your network. Encourage others to contribute or offer words of support.

Send Encouragement: Reach out to Jake and his family. Your words of encouragement can lift their spirits during this challenging time.

Thank you for considering Jake’s situation. Your support means the world to him, Taylor, and their immediate and extended family. Let’s rally together to help Jake on his journey to recovery. ❤️