Support Josh and Heather’s Tough Journey

We are raising funds for Josh, Heather, and Mia Winningham. On Wednesday morning, May 22, 2024, Josh was in a car accident. He sustained multiple injuries to his back, including 4-5 fractured vertebrae and a spinal cord impingement. He screamed in agony for hours, feeling like his legs were on fire, and unable to move or adjust his position. Thankfully, he could move his fingers. He could wiggle his toes, but that was the extent of his mobility from the waist down. On Friday, May 24, Josh underwent an 8+ hour surgery. The trauma surgeon and neurosurgeon attempted to stabilize his spine and inserted many rods and screws. This was likely the first of many surgeries. As of right now, we don’t know what the future holds. The neurosurgeon does not know if Josh will ever walk again. He thinks that he will and is hopeful that he will, but there is so much weakness in Josh’s right leg.

Later that Wednesday morning that forever changed Josh’s life, he was supposed to meet his wife, Heather, at a doctor appointment. Heather is expecting their first child, a baby girl named Mia. Heather is a rock and has been by Josh’s side every step of the way, focused only on him and his health. However, in a few short weeks, their lives will change once again when baby Mia arrives. Everyone is rallying around Josh and Heather, but they both have a very long and difficult road ahead of them. Will Josh be able to walk again? When will Josh be able to work again? How long will Heather be out of work once she has the baby? How will Heather be able to take care of Josh and a newborn? There are many unanswered questions, but we can help remove just a tiny bit of all that stress with financial support.

Your donations will contribute to:

My name is Mary Cocke. While my last name is no longer Winningham, my son’s last name is, and Archie, Judy, Neal, Brittany, and Josh will always be family to me. I remember when I met Josh, over 18 years ago, and he was just a young high school kid. He has always been, and still is, like a little brother to me. My heart breaks for Josh and Heather and all that they will have to endure.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank each and every one of you for donating and for sharing Josh’s story.