
Help Jake Rebuild & Return to Alaska
Donation protected
Jake moved out to Alaska several years ago to experience a new life. It didn't take long to adapt to everything it had to offer. Jake was living in an apartment and working for a large landscaping company. In his spare time, he enjoyed outdoor activities with friends. Navigating life on his own so far away from family in Michigan had its challenges but Jake was finding his way. The pandemic prevented Jake from returning home to visit family for 2 years, but he was finally back enjoying his family time. A day before his return flight to Alaska Jake was helping his dad cut down some trees with a chainsaw. His dad was down on one knee cutting some tree limbs. Jake's natural instinct was to help his dad, so he went over closer but slipped and fell into the chainsaw that was in full throttle. The chainsaw cut Jake right below one of his knees. Jake was not only lucky to not lose his leg but to be alive! Unfortunately, they were deep in the woods, and it took some major efforts to get Jake loaded onto a trailer and transported in closer to the road for paramedics to actually get to him. They bandaged his knee off tightly and this helped with blood loss until paramedics could arrive. They performed a successful surgery but there will be months of rehab in order to build the strength back up to walk on that leg again. Jake's plan is to return back to Alaska by summertime. Please help Jake rebuild his life and return to Alaska.
Organizer and beneficiary
Audrey Vella
Organizer
Portage, MI
Robert Vella
Beneficiary