Ron James

First post: Mar 25, 2020 Latest post: Aug 8, 2020
Welcome to Ron's CaringBridge. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place.  Please check this site (under "Journal") for updates on Ron as either Kory, a family member, or friends will update whenever there is news to share. It is encouraging when you leave comments and well wishes.

On Thursday, March 19, 2020, Ron was involved in a single vehicle roll-over accident on his way to work after his truck slid on ice.   The truck was totaled, and Ron's injuries are critical.  Ron was first taken to St. Joseph's in Park Rapids then sent to Sanford in Fargo.  The initial reports are that he has a broken neck, a severed spinal cord, and some fractured vertebra.  Ron underwent an extensive 6+ hour surgery on Friday to stabilize and fix some of the issues with his neck and spine.  The doctors were optimistic with how the surgery went.  Kory requested they play praise music or the  audio Bible during surgery, and her request was honored. 

Kory was told that, due to where the injuries are, Ron would be paralyzed from the chest down. Kory went face to face with the doctor and told him “You don't know my God.  My God is bigger.  My God is greater - You'll see God's hand move!" (she and Ron are also at peace should God not answer that prayer). Right now, he has feeling only from his upper chest up. He has some limited arm movements (forearm and elbow). He has been awake and aware of his surroundings, although due to the pain levels, he is often sedated. When he is awake, Kory said it is clear he is at peace.  Monday night (March 23), as Kory was playing praise and worship in his room, she said he was alert, mouthing the words to the worship songs, and faintly moving his head in praise.

Ron had a probe of his lungs Tuesday, March 24.  His lungs are looking good, but his oxygen levels get low without a breathing tube, so for now they are helping him breathe with a breathing tube.  Ron also agreed to have a tracheotomy, which is an answer to prayer.  His glucose levels are also elevated, so he is on insulin.

Please, as you are praying for Ron, remember Kory as well (and Nikki, their daughter; LaMae, Ron's mother; and the rest of Ron's family). There is a lot going on for Kory, outside of Ron's accident. This is going to be a very long road for them. They both are at peace, but they can also use encouragement. Nikki is there right now and takes time sitting with her dad so her mom can get some rest. Another local friend is also in Fargo right now to help Kory with immediate needs.

Ron's address at the hospital is:

Sanford Hospital 
Ron James
ICU room 555
5225 23rd Ave South, Room 555
Fargo, ND 58104
Or 
Four Points Hotel
5064 23rd Avenue South
Fargo ND 58104

Kory is staying at Four Points by Sheraton in Fargo for two weeks and will possibly be there longer (please check this page for updates). The hotel upgraded her to a king suite with a kitchenette. If anyone is interested in helping with groceries, because of Kory's health, it's important to remember she is gluten-free, dairy-free, and eats organic produce. Both Cash-wise and Hornbacher's in Fargo offer delivery right now.


An account has been set up at Citizens National Bank of Park Rapids for those who would like to help Ron and Kory James during this time. 


Funds can be dropped off thru the bank drive thru or mailed. Please make sure your check and/or envelope is clearly marked "Kory James/ Ron James Donation Account." (Legally, checks MUST be made out in Kory's name in order to be deposited.)  Deposit slips will be sent to Kory with the donor's name marked. If you would like to give anonymously, please make sure that is noted. You can also wire funds, but there is a service fee from Citizens and usually also for the sender.  


Donations can be mailed to:
Citizens National Bank of Park Rapids
Kory James/Ron James Donation Account
300 First Street West
Park Rapids MN 56470  
Donations will be used for any medical expenses that are not covered, ongoing household bills, groceries and other essentials for Kory and Nikki, and any other things that may be needed.

Thank you for your prayers, encouragement, and support.  Please feel free to leave a note of encouragement for the family here.  Updates will be posted when information to share is available. 

In closing, Ron and Kory want each of you to remember Ron's favorite verse, Philippians 4:13: I can do ALL THINGS through Christ Who strengthens me.

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