Help Us Support Justin O’Connor's Fight for Recovery

Help Justin O’Connor Recover from a Life-Threatening Accident

On Friday, October 4th, 2024, our beloved Justin O’Connor, 31, from Mayfield, Kentucky, was involved in a severe motorcycle accident that has left him fighting for his life. While driving on Old Dublin Road, Justin’s motorcycle veered off the side of the road, hitting a driveway culvert. He was airlifted to TriStar Skyline Medical Center, where doctors confirmed he suffered a Level 3 traumatic brain injury with multiple brain bleeds. He remains unresponsive, on a ventilator, and in critical condition.

James 5:14-15 reminds us, "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up." We are holding onto this faith as Justin continues his battle in the ICU. We know God is with him in every step of this journey, providing strength where we can’t.

Since the accident, Justin’s family has been by his side. His brother, Joe Goalder, arrived at the hospital first to confirm his identity, and their mother, Jennifer Lynn, flew in from Florida as soon as she got the devastating news. His brother, Tim O'Connor, has also been at the hospital throughout. As of today, Justin has shown minimal response—his pupils reacted slightly, giving us hope, but he remains in a medically induced coma.

The medical team diagnosed Justin with Stage 3 Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI), a severe form of brain damage, and we are facing the reality that this will be a long and difficult road to recovery. He has developed ventilator pneumonia, which has delayed planned surgeries, including facial reconstruction and a tracheostomy. But through it all, we remember Isaiah 41:10: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

A Firefighter, EMT, and Hero

Justin has been a firefighter and certified EMT for over a decade, serving the Mayfield-Graves County community. He was a first responder during the catastrophic tornado that hit Mayfield in December 2021, risking his life to save others from the rubble of the Candle Factory. His dedication to serving others is a testament to his selflessness and courage, and in 2021, he was named Kentucky Firefighter of the Year for his heroic efforts.

Justin was in the process of transitioning jobs when the accident occurred and, unfortunately, he did not have insurance at the time. This has left his family with an overwhelming financial burden, as medical expenses continue to mount. His mother and brother have been staying in Nashville, managing the costs of travel, food, and accommodations, while holding onto hope and praying for Justin's recovery. Isaiah 40:29 says, "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." We are leaning on this promise as we navigate this difficult time.

Family Man and Loving Father

Justin is not only a hero to the community but also a devoted father to his nearly 3-year-old daughter, Harper. She is the light of his life, and right now, she believes her daddy is simply at work. Her mother, Alex Myers, is doing her best to keep things positive for Harper, but the reality is hard for all of us. We know that Justin’s journey to recovery will be long, and we pray every day for the moment he can hold his daughter again. As Jeremiah 17:14 reminds us, "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise."

How You Can Help

Justin’s road to recovery is uncertain, and we don’t know how long it will take for him to wake up from the coma. When he does, there will be extensive rehabilitation and medical costs ahead. Any support you can offer—whether through prayers, donations, or simply sharing his story—will make a tremendous difference.

John 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." While we face many unknowns, we trust that God’s peace will guide us through this storm. We humbly ask for your help as Justin continues his fight for life. Together, we can support him, his family, and his beautiful daughter, Harper, as they navigate this incredibly challenging time.

Thank you for your prayers, support, and love.