Jacob’s Story

Site created on July 12, 2018

On Saturday, June 30th, Jacob had an accident in the pool and broke his C1, C5 and C6 vertebrae.  He spent some time under the water but his Father (Jason) pulled him out and performed CPR quickly enough to avoid any anoxic injury to the brain.  Jacob's spinal cord is in tact but it has sustained significant  bruising and swelling which has limited movement in his arms and legs.  Jacob was airlifted to Maine Medical Center where he has received the best possible care over a two week period. 

Jason and Jacob are on track to go to Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA for rehab.  We are not sure how long they will be there but they are saying anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months. 

Jacob's goal is to walk back into school in the fall for his sophomore year.  He is in really good spirits and is determined to have a full recovery.  Anyone who knows Jacob is familiar with his hilarious sense of humor, his deep compassion for others and his strong will.  This website is available to our friends and family so that we can all follow his journey to recovery.  Please check back for updates!

Newest Update

Journal entry by Jason Hunt

Apologies that there hasn't been an update in a while, things have been a little hectic for everyone, including Jacob. He continues to make forward progress! He is now walking around the house without using his crutches! He still uses them while out in the community and is using his chair at school, but he is determined to get his strength and coordination back to where he can stop using the chair at school and walk without his crutches. His determination is to be admired and we are so very proud of him  :)

A few weeks back, Jacob took a trip to the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital at Maine Medical Center to visit the team of doctors and nurses that took care of him for the first two weeks after his injury. Jacob walked through the doors and was greeted by two of the nurses and the Neurologist who took care of him during his stay there. They all couldn't believe that Jacob was walking back into the PICU like he promised he would before he left! This was an uplifting and emotional experience for Jacob  :)

Today, Jacob made a surprise appearance at the First Congressional Church in Farmington, NH, where his great gram goes to Church every Sunday. The Congregation has been following Jacob's story through his great gram and have been praying for him at each weekly service. They also sent him cards signed by members of the Congregation while he was in Atlanta. Those prayers contributed to Jacob's amazing recovery and continued strength throughout his journey. Jacob walked through the door and was met by the usher (whom is also a long time family friend), who quickly went to get Jacob's great gram from inside the Church. The Pastor asked the choir and pianist to stop and introduced Jacob to the Congregation. Jacob walked down the center isle and toward the Pastor while everyone clapped for him. The Pastor asked Jacob to tell them how he has been doing since he got home and Jacob spoke into the microphone and updated the entire Congregation! We are just so proud of him  :)

Jacob is going the physical therapy once a week and has seen some improvements in his fine motor skills, and continues to build muscle strength. He has been going to school and doing well at getting around and making to class on time. Jacob is still in touch with his friends from the Shepherd Center in Atlanta and follows their progress on social media.

Here are some photos  :)

Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Jacob Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Jacob's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Comments Hide comments

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top