Rehabilitation Funds for Jay (Jenna) Gaines

Update (November 7, 2022):

We want to say a sincere thank you to each and every person that contributed to this GoFundMe, sent words of kindness, prayed, or helped in any way (particularly the Hensley, Shaffer, Higgins and Johnson families). It is so very much appreciated.

Jay had their cranioplasty (surgery to put the skull back into place) in mid-August. The surgery was successful; unfortunately, Jay developed an infection in their brain, and their skull had to be removed. Jay was on IV antibiotics until just recently to battle that infection - then the IV/PICC line itself was the cause of even more infections. Jay was hospitalized three different times. It has been a hard road with many complications and waiting.

Amazingly, Jay was just able to return to work part-time! They need to wear a helmet to protect their head, and rely on a cane or wheelchair at times but they are happy to be working and creating art again. The next (and hopefully) last major surgery has been scheduled for December - where the neurosurgeons will place a 3D-printed skull in Jay's head. Pretty amazing.

Your GoFundMe donations have gone entirely toward rent and living expenses in the new accessible apartment - this has allowed Jay to recover and stay where their medical team is located. Meanwhile, we are still working to have the driver who caused this to be brought to justice. While nothing will make up for what she did, we all feel strongly about her facing the consequences of her deliberate actions and prevent her from doing it again.

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On Sunday night, Jay (Jenna) Gaines was hit by a car on their way home from work.

Thankfully, a nurse and a paramedic were on scene and provided care that helped saved their life, and those who prevented the driver from leaving the scene.

Jay was admitted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center and has undergone surgery to remove pressure from the brain. Today Jay had another successful surgery on the left leg. Although things are headed in the right direction, it will be a long road to recovery. Kellie is planning on staying in Cincinnati for the summer and longer as needed.

So many people have asked how they can help. At this time any donations made will go towards the care and rehabilitation for Jay.

Thank you to all of the people who have reached out to help, and sending positive thoughts and prayers.