Carl Jenkins is my hero.

I know every father says that about his child, but I have never met anyone more determined than Carl.

On June 11, 2026, Carl was participating in pre-season cross-country training for Forbush High School when he was struck by a commercial delivery truck. He suffered multiple broken bones, severe head trauma, and arrived at the hospital unresponsive. The doctors were not sure he would survive the night.

Today, Carl remains in the ICU at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. He is still unconscious as doctors continue to monitor his condition and evaluate the extent of his traumatic brain injury.

What makes Carl's story remarkable is not just what happened on June 11. It is everything he overcame before that day.

All four of our children were adopted through North Carolina's foster care system. Carl experienced severe neglect early in life and faced challenges that most people will never fully understand. Over the years, he was diagnosed with microcephaly, autism, intellectual disabilities, and multiple psychiatric conditions.

Many people would have allowed those challenges to define them.

Carl never did.

He played football. He sang in chorus. He traveled on school field trips. He participated in track and field. He became a cross-country runner.

He usually finished last.

He never quit.

Carl wasn't running against the other runners. He was running against the version of himself from yesterday. Every race was an opportunity to improve his time, and every finish line was a victory.

That is who Carl is.

My wife and I opened Pisgah Needleworks in Historic Downtown Elkin in part because we wanted to create opportunities for Carl to learn job skills and gain independence. The progress he was making filled us with hope for his future.

Now that future is uncertain.

We do not yet know the full extent of Carl's injuries. We do not know what his recovery will look like. We do not know what level of care he may need in the months and years ahead.

What we do know is this:

When we adopted Carl, we made a lifelong commitment to him. That commitment has not changed.

No matter what challenges lie ahead, we will stand beside him and provide the best care possible.

Funds raised through this campaign will be placed into a Special Needs Trust dedicated to Carl's future care, rehabilitation, medical needs, and quality of life. Every donation will help us prepare for the road ahead and ensure that Carl receives the support he deserves.

Carl has spent his life giving back to others. He volunteered whenever he had the opportunity. He cared deeply about his school, his friends, and his community.

Now he needs our help.

Carl loved sunflowers. He loved how their giant blooms turned toward the light. During difficult moments, I would remind him to "be a sunflower" and turn his heart toward the people who loved him.

Over time, the sunflower became a symbol of Carl's resilience, hope, and healing.

That is why we created Sunflowers for Carl.

It is more than a name. It is a reminder of the strength, kindness, and determination that Carl has shown throughout his life.

If you are able to donate, share this campaign, or simply keep Carl in your thoughts and prayers, our family is deeply grateful.

Thank you for helping us surround Carl with the love and support he has always given to others.

Josh Jenkins

Carl's Father