Thank you for stopping by our Caring Bridge site. This is where you can learn of the latest updates on Jeff's status and where Jeff and Jamie will share their thoughts as they navigate through the rough waters ahead. It means more than can be expressed that you took time to stop by, leave a note and pray for Jeff and Jamie and the Vascular Surgery Team at the Ohio State University Ross Heart Hospital and the Dodd Hall Rehabilitation Hospital at the Ohio State University.
In 2012 Jeff was diagnosed with a DNA mutation in the gene used to make prothrombin which is an inherited thrombophilia (clotting disorder) called prothrombin G20210A. This was discovered after Jeff began to experience neuropathy and severe pain starting in his feet which progressed up his legs. Critical limb ischemia followed which is a severe blockage in the arteries of the lower extremities, which markedly reduces blood-flow causing the leg(s) to turn dark, cold and be extremely painful. This is a serious form of peripheral arterial disease. Jeff underwent bypass surgery in an effort to correct the issue.
In 2018 he began to have serious symptoms again and had to be taken to a local emergency room from his job site. Returning home, Jeff and Jamie consulted with the vascular surgeon who had performed the femoral bypass in 2012 at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. It was determined that he needed to have additional surgery immediately to reopen the artery allowing blood flow again to his legs.
Returning to the surgeon the end of January to have stitches removed and get an ultrasound to assess the success of the surgery Jeff and Jamie learned there was only a vein pulse and not a femoral artery pulse. An ultrasound revealed that an angiogram would need to be done which revealed that the bypass no longer remained open. Since this visit with the vascular surgeon, there have been visits with the cardiologist, hematologist, pulmonologist, primary care, and of course, the surgeon.
Jeff is now just over a week out from surgery and his leg was amputated roughly 10 cm below the knee. For this, we are thankful.
Jeff and Jamie are facing an uncertain future however, doing so with courage, grace, and faith. It is an exhausting task for both of them. You can be a vital part of recovery and rehab and provide encouragement to them by leaving a message here and checking back for updates as the process moves forward and Jeff works hard at recovery and learning to live in his new body.
You may provide a financial gift to help provide for out of pocket expenses such as co-pays, medications, fuel, parking, food, and time off from work that Jamie is taking as they go through the grueling process of hospitalizations, surgery, recovery, rehabilitation, and adjustment to a new life. Simply click on "how to help" and know that 100% of your donation will go directly to Jeff and Jamie with no fees incurred. Support may be made via pay pal or direct deposit to their bank. All the information can be found in "how to help". Your love and support are deeply appreciated.
Be Strong and Courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6
So it's been a really long time since I have updated this. I have been doing very well. I have my prosthetic and I'm getting better with it everyday. This past Wednesday I got back on the tower! It was only the 80 foot training tower, but I climbed it and it felt amazing. I am hoping to go back to work this coming week, not as a climber, just back to work for now. My disability claim was denied, they said I am recovering well and should be able to return to work. I guess that's what I will do then! Jamie, Justice and I truly appreciate everything that people have done for us. It's been a struggle but it would have been impossible without all the help we have received. I will try to do a better job updating this as we continue along this journey!
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