On June 1st, our lives changed in an instant.
My brother-in-law, Joel Beckham of Huntington Beach, California, was doing something he loves—surfing with his good friend Dave. What began as a beautiful day in the water quickly turned into a nightmare when Joel was thrown from his surfboard and suffered a catastrophic spinal injury.
When Dave realized Joel was in distress, he immediately rushed to him and pulled him from the ocean. He called for help, and by God's grace, an EMT happened to be walking nearby on the beach. She ran to Joel and began CPR. Thanks to her quick actions, Joel left the beach with a pulse, though he remained unconscious.
At the hospital, doctors discovered that Joel had sustained a severe spinal cord injury. Emergency surgery was performed as soon as MRI results were available. Surgeons were able to decompress his spinal cord and stabilize his spine, giving him the best possible chance for recovery.
Today, Joel is awake, and fully aware of everything happening around him. However, he currently has no feeling below his upper chest and remains on a ventilator while his body heals from surgery. He desperately wants to speak to his family, his friends, and the many people praying for him, but for now he must focus on healing and taking each day one step at a time.
The coming days and weeks are critical. We are praying for every small victory, every sign of progress, every bit of sensation that returns. Right now, we simply do not know what the future holds.
What we do know is who Joel is.
Joel is one of the most genuine, kind-hearted, loving, and faithful Christian men you could ever meet. He is the type of person who shows up when someone is in need, who puts his family first, and who treats everyone he meets with compassion and respect. He is a devoted husband to Sue and a loving father to Joshua and Emma. The outpouring of love surrounding Joel is a testament to the countless lives he has touched over the years.
As Joel fights through the most difficult challenge of his life, Sue, Joshua, and Emma rarely leave his side. They are holding onto hope, faith, and the support of their community.
Unfortunately, this injury has also created an enormous financial burden. Joel has been the primary source of income for the family, and regardless of what his recovery ultimately looks like, their lives will be forever changed. Medical expenses, rehabilitation, specialized equipment, home modifications, transportation needs, lost income, and daily living expenses will continue to grow in the months ahead.
We are asking for help to ease some of that burden so Joel and his family can focus on what matters most— his recovery and their time together.
If you are able, please consider donating. No gift is too small, and every contribution will make a meaningful difference. If you cannot donate, we ask that you please share this page and keep Joel and his family in your prayers.
Thank you for standing with Joel, Sue, Joshua, and Emma during this unimaginable time. Your generosity, encouragement, and prayers mean more than words can express.
With gratitude and hope,
Jackie Boxley for
The Beckham Family