Support Jacolby Satterwhite’s Recovery and Return to Art
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Jacolby Satterwhite is facing a devastating health challenge.
A two-time cancer survivor, Jacolby has lived with a prosthetic, cemented to the bone in his right arm and shoulder since childhood. Despite limited mobility, he has built an extraordinary career as a visionary artist and filmmaker, with exhibitions in major galleries and museums worldwide.
Over the past year, Jacolby has undergone extensive bouts of antibiotics and care to manage his symptoms. But recently, he developed a catastrophic, life-threatening infection in his prosthetic– which has now ruptured into a grapefruit-sized open wound on his shoulder, completely exposing the bone below his skin. The infection has begun to impact other organs, and urgent surgery is now required to save his life.
A Complex Medical Journey
Starting this June, Jacolby will undergo a year-long medical process involving three major surgeries and extended rehabilitation. After consultations with Columbia Medical and top specialists at three leading hospitals, Jacolby has secured a world-class team to guide his care.
Step 1: Infection Removal
- 12 weeks of IV Antibiotics in preparation for surgery
- Complete removal of the infected prosthetic and surrounding muscle -The prosthetic will have to be chiseled off of what's left of Jacolby's original humerus, as they're cemented together
- Intensive debridement and sterilization of the shoulder
- During this stage, his shoulder will be structurally absent, with muscle and tissue preserved for limited mobility
- Jacolby will be largely immobile and bedridden
Step 2: Shoulder Reconstruction
- Once the infection has cleared from the shoulder, a donor (cadaver) bone graft and a custom-built, advanced 3D-printed prosthetic will be implanted to rebuild the shoulder
- His pectoral muscle will be surgically repositioned to replace deltoid muscle lost to infection
Step 3: Prosthesis and Rehabilitation
- Months of intensive physical therapy to relearn mobility
- Implantation of a pectoral prosthesis to restore movement and strength
Though rare and technically demanding, this procedure offers a strong path to recovery under expert care and a chance to save Jacolby's arm and dominant hand.
Why This Matters
Jacolby is more than an artist—he’s a source of joy and connection in every community he’s part of. Known for his deep compassion and radiant spirit, he brings people together through his work, teaching, and care for others.
This health crisis affects his ability not only to make a living, but also to live independently. Without support, the toll—physical, emotional, and financial—will be overwhelming.
How You Can Help
Your donation will support:
- Surgery, medical materials, and hospital stays
- In-home caregiving support during extended recovery
- Medication, physical therapy, and follow-up care
- Basic living expenses while Jacolby is unable to work
Your support gives Jacolby the stability to focus on healing—and the chance to return to the work and life that has touched and inspired so many.
Please give what you can. Share widely. Stand with Jacolby.
Jacolby's first surgery is scheduled for this June. We will be regularly updating this page with information on his surgeries and recovery throughout the campaign.
Thank you.
Co-organizers (5)
Nicholas Weiss
Organizer
Brooklyn, NY
Jacolby Satterwhite
Beneficiary
Andrew Durbin
Co-organizer
David Casavant
Co-organizer
Stewart Uoo
Co-organizer