Last week, our family's lives changed forever.

JD Hoth, my sister Jenny's husband, was involved in a devastating freak accident while cutting down a tree at home. We want to be clear that this was not the result of carelessness or poor judgment. He was wearing a hard hat and protective clothing and was taking every reasonable precaution. The tree was far more compromised than anyone could have seen from the outside and failed suddenly without warning.

JD suffered a severe cervical spinal cord injury and was airlifted to a Level I Trauma Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery to stabilize his neck and spine.

Thankfully, JD is alive, and his life is not currently in danger. He has full brain function and full use of his head, neck, and arms. At this time, however, he has no feeling below his chest, including his abdomen, lower body, and legs. While the surgery was successful, we simply don't know what his long-term recovery will look like.

If you know JD, you know he has always dedicated his life to serving others. He is a devoted husband to Jenny, an incredible father to their three children, and a teacher in Huntley who pours his heart into his students every day. Before becoming a teacher, he served as a youth minister, mentoring countless young people in their faith and encouraging them through life's challenges. Whether in the classroom, at church, or in his community, JD has always been someone who shows up for others with kindness, compassion, and a servant's heart.

Now, it's our turn to show up for him.

The days, weeks, and months ahead will be incredibly difficult. After his hospital stay, JD will face extensive inpatient rehabilitation, ongoing therapy, and the long process of adapting to a completely different way of life. Their home will need to be modified for accessibility, they will eventually need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, and there will be countless medical and unforeseen expenses. Jenny has been faithfully by JD’s side every day and night at the hospital, and is the point person for his care management and advocacy, driving hundreds of decisions she never thought she would have to make.

Additionally, for the foreseeable future, Jenny, who teaches in Carpentersville, will now be the family's primary source of income and will be returning to her full-time job for the 2026-2027 school year. Like so many families, on top of the mounting medical expenses, they have a mortgage, student loans, and everyday bills that won't stop simply because life has changed overnight.

If you're able to donate, any amount will help ease that financial burden so Jenny can focus on caring for her family and JD can focus on healing. If you're unable to give, we completely understand. Sharing this fundraiser and keeping JD, Jenny, and their children in your prayers means more than you know.

What we do know is – JD. He's strong, he's determined, and he's surrounded by people who love him more than words can say. We are incredibly grateful for the first responders, his surgeons, all of the various medical teams, and everyone who has reached out to support JD & Jenny during the hardest time of their lives.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for every donation, every prayer, every share, and every act of kindness. We truly believe that JD and Jenny will not walk this journey alone.

A Note About Privacy

This has been an incredibly traumatic and overwhelming experience for JD, Jenny, and especially their three children. We kindly ask that everyone respect their privacy during this difficult time. While they deeply appreciate every prayer, message, and expression of support, they may not be able to respond personally as they focus on healing and caring for one another. We will share updates here as JD and Jenny are comfortable.