Josiah Hakala Fund

On Thursday, Dec. 7th, Jeff and Suzanne Hakala’s ten year old son Josiah fell off his bicycle. What seemed like just a minor injury quickly turned into a life threatening situation. He was diagnosed at The Monadnock Hospital with a lacerated liver and a damaged pancreas and transported via med-flight to U Mass, Worcester Medical Center. The bleeding from his liver stopped within a few hours; however a substantial hematoma on his pancreas has become a major issue. Last Wednesday the surgical team attempted to open the blockage in his pancreatic duct but were unable to get through the damaged area. He has remained in the hospital, closely monitored, since his accident, while doctors determine the best treatment for his damaged pancreas. Josiah cannot eat or drink until his pancreas is functioning. He has spent 14 days in the ICU and the length of his hospital care is unknown at this time. Josiah is a fine young boy who has touched many lives with his very mild, polite demeanor. His passion for the game of golf is something rarely found in a ten year old boy. The countless hours of practice have rewarded him with a very impressive tournament record. At the age of five he began competing in The US Kids Boston Local Tour. He has played in 90 tournaments placing first 37 times , second 25 times and 3rd 14 times and has won 8 Tour Championships. Josiah has also competed in 3 world championships ( at Pinehurst NC )and is currently ranked 63rd in the world. He has also participated in the Drive, Chip and Putt competition and has enjoyed playing in the PGA junior league. With the inspiration of his dad , a volunteer high school golf coach and his uncle Mike, a two time New Hampshire Amateur Champion, Josiah should continue to excel in this very challenging sport. With the love and support of many, this stumbling stone he has encountered will turn into a stepping stone for this young boy. Please continue to pray for JoJo; he needs a miracle right now.Suzanne has been and will continue to stay at the hospital with Josiah and Jeff is there as much as possible while still working when he can. Due to an illness that went undiagnosed for years, Jeff has been unable to work more than a few days a week. The burden of having a child injured so seriously is a heavy one, and naturally financial worries add to that load, so we ask that you please consider helping them monetarily during this extremely difficult time in their lives. Your generous contributions will help cover expenses. Any additional proceeds will be set aside for Josiah’s education and future dream of playing on the PGA. Thank you for all your prayers and support.