Help support Josh’s road to recovery!

On Wednesday, April 16, Josh was a passenger in a serious car accident. After losing sensation in the lower half of his body, he had to be cut out of the vehicle and was rushed by ambulance to Brandon Regional Health Centre, then later transferred to Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.

Josh was red-flagged for Cauda Equina Syndrome, caused by multiple severe fractures in his lower spine. He was taken in and underwent a six-hour surgery where the surgeons placed two large rods and 20 screws to stabilize his spine, and carefully removed bone fragments that were compressing his spinal cord. Thankfully, the surgery went smoothly without complications.

However, it confirmed that Josh has sustained a spinal cord injury. At this stage, it’s too early to know what recovery will look like or what level of function he will regain. We are hopeful that, with time and rehab, Josh will be able to walk again with assistance —but the full extent of his recovery is still unknown. What we do know is that this will be a long, challenging journey, both physically and emotionally.

Josh is expected to remain at HSC for at least a week before beginning the next phase of his care. Anyone who knows Josh knows he’s strong, resilient, and deeply loved. He’s already been incredibly moved by the support from friends, family, and the wider community.

Ashley and Josh are two of the most selfless, compassionate people I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. They go out of their way to support friends, family, and even strangers, always showing up with love, kindness, and a helping hand. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or simply being there when someone needs them most, they never hesitate to give. Now, in the wake of Josh’s serious car accident, it’s our turn to rally around them and give back some of the love they so freely share. They’re facing an incredibly tough road ahead, and they need our support more than ever—every little bit helps and means the world to this amazing couple and their two children.

If you’re able, any contribution will go directly toward helping Josh and his family manage the road ahead—from medical expenses to equipment, rehab, and more.

Thank you so much for your care and support.

** UPDATE **

April 20, 2026

Josh and I wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a Happy Easter and, once again, say thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

We truly don’t know what we’ve done to deserve the outpouring of love, kindness, and support we’ve received. Every message, visit, and donation has lifted us up in ways we can’t put into words. We’ve been brought to tears more than once by your kind words and generosity.

Josh had a weekend full of both highs and lows. He’s slowly starting to regain some feeling—which is such an encouraging sign—and we’re holding onto hope that even more will return in time. With the return of sensation, though, has come an increase in pain. Thankfully, the incredible care team at HSC has been so attentive, compassionate, and informative—it’s helped ease our minds and reminded us that this is all part of the recovery journey.

Josh has even been able to sit briefly at the edge of the bed a couple of times, which feels like another big step forward. We’re staying optimistic and believing that he’s heading in the right direction.

We have so many individual thank yous we want to share, and we see all of your support. Please know how deeply grateful we are.

— Josh and Ashley